In any yoga session, the instructor will often direct the class on when and how to breathe during different poses. This is because the control of the breath is just as if not more important than the positioning of the body. Because of this, it is important to understand how you can use your breath to reap the most health benefits from your yoga practice.

Yoga studio Pilates 580 in Oakland, CA offers a variety of classes such as Pilates classes, private Pilates, and duet Pilates. These classes, along with yoga classes, address breathwork as a key part of any exercise practice. In yoga, the Sanskrit word for breath and life is prāṇa. This energy lives in and around us all, and during yoga, we can tap into our prāṇa through our breath.

Mindfulness practices, such as meditation, are a great way to begin to connect with the breath. Connecting with your breath, in all contexts, will make it simpler to incorporate it into your yoga practice. Try this simple breath meditation at home, at work, or anywhere you can focus on just breathing for a few minutes.

1. Close your eyes, and focus your attention on your breath.
2. Count to six as you inhale, and then count to six again as you exhale. Repeat for six rounds.
3. Take a break with three normal breaths.
4. Count to six as you inhale again, and then count to eight as you exhale. Repeat for six rounds.
5. Take a break with three normal breaths.
6. Count to six as you inhale, and then count to six again as you exhale. Repeat for six rounds.
7. Return to breathing normally.

The key to this breathing meditation is to observe how you breathe. Notice what was difficult for you. Notice what was effortless. Notice how you feel before, during, and after.

During a yoga class at Pilate 580, you can pay close attention to breathing instruction. Worry less about each pose and focus more on connecting with your breath in the same way you did during your breathing meditation. Soon this connection will bring new depth and focus to each pose.

If you're interested in a yoga workout that's supportive and intimate, try Pilates 580 in Oakland. Their small class sizes and private Pilates classes make each workout experience more personalized and healthful. Visit them online to learn more and call (510) 338-3932 today to schedule a private or duet Pilates class.