[This is the first in a series of posts that will briefly outline the benefits of each posture in the Bikram series.]

Posture 1 of 26

Standing Deep Breathing

Benefits: Most people only use 10% of their lung capacity. Pranayama Breathing teaches us to breathe more efficiently and fully. This exercise calms the mind, increases concentration/focus, detoxifies the lungs and mind, reduces stress, reduces blood pressure, increases oxygenation of the blood, increases circulation. It also increases flexibility of the rib cage and is good for the voice.

Issues & Maladies: Procrastination, indecision, holding back, insecurity, emphysema, asthma, shortness of breath, breathing problems, high blood pressure, indigestion.

Body Parts Affected: Lungs, thyroid, para-thyroid, pituitary gland, pineal gland, spinal cord, diaphragm, stomach, small intestine, abdominal organs, rib cage, shoulders, wrists, fingers, neck .

Notes: The sanskrit word Prana is usually understood to mean ‘universal life force’ (or energy) but the word that I like to use is ‘vitality’. Definitions of Ayama are more broad and include, ‘restraint,’ ‘control,’ ‘development,’ and even ‘to lengthen or stretch.’ Put together you have Pranayama. There are various forms of Pranayama Breathing exercises but they are all rooted in the idea of using the breath as a means of increasing one’s inner life force or vitality.