The Yogic 3 phase breath is the breath I turn to in my personal practice and in my classes, particularly my aquatic yoga classes. This breath can seamlessly be introduced into your yoga practice and throughout the day.

In the realm of ancient yogic practices, there exists a profound technique that has stood the test of time: the Three-Phase Breathing Technique. Rooted in the rich tapestry of yoga philosophy, this practice offers a gateway to deep relaxation, heightened awareness, and inner transformation. Let’s explore the importance of the Yogic Three-Phase Breathing Technique and how it can enrich our lives.

Understanding the Three Phases: Before delving into its significance, let’s dissect the Three-Phase Breathing Technique.

Unlike conventional breathing methods, this practice involves three distinct phases:

1. Abdominal Breathing (Diaphragmatic Breathing): In the first phase, attention is directed towards the lower abdomen. As you inhale deeply, the belly expands like a balloon, allowing the diaphragm to descend and draw air into the lungs. This deep, slow breath engages the parasympathetic nervous system, inducing a state of relaxation and calm.
2. Thoracic Breathing (Chest Breathing): Moving to the second phase, the focus shifts to the middle chest. With each inhalation, the ribcage expands outward and upward, filling the upper lungs with fresh oxygen. This phase enhances lung capacity and oxygenation, promoting vitality and energy flow throughout the body.
3. Clavicular Breathing (Collarbone Breathing): Lastly, the third phase targets the upper chest and collarbones. As you take a final, shallow inhalation, the shoulders rise slightly, allowing the uppermost part of the lungs to receive a small influx of air. While this phase is subtle, it helps to fully expand the lungs and release any residual tension in the upper body.

As I explain to my students, inhale and exhale through your nose.

Inhale and fill the belly with air, move that air into your chest and then fill your lungs. Exhale lungs, chest, belly. Go ahead, try it. Give yourself a moment or 2 and take a few deep breaths.

Turn to this breath when you feel anxious or stressed. This is also a great breath to enhance meditation.

Now, let’s explore why the Yogic Three-Phase Breathing Technique holds such profound significance:

1. Holistic Alignment: By engaging all three phases of breathing, this technique promotes holistic alignment of the body, mind, and spirit. It encourages a harmonious rhythm of breath that synchronizes with the natural flow of life force energy (Prana), fostering balance and vitality.
2. Deep Relaxation: The deliberate focus on each phase of breath cultivates a deep sense of relaxation and tranquility. By activating the parasympathetic nervous system, the Three-Phase Breathing Technique counteracts the body’s stress response, reducing tension and promoting a state of inner peace.
3. Enhanced Awareness: Through mindful awareness of the breath, practitioners of this technique develop heightened sensitivity to subtle bodily sensations and energetic currents. This heightened awareness extends beyond the physical realm, offering insights into the interconnectedness of mind, body, and spirit.
4. Liberation of Prana: In yogic philosophy, Prana is the vital life force that animates all aspects of existence. The Three-Phase Breathing Technique serves as a potent vehicle for channeling and liberating Prana throughout the body, clearing energetic blockages and revitalizing the entire being.

In a world characterized by constant busyness and external distractions, the Yogic Three-Phase Breathing Technique offers a sanctuary of stillness and self-discovery. Through its threefold journey of inhalation and exhalation, this practice invites us to reconnect with the innate wisdom of our breath and unlock the boundless potential within. Whether you seek relaxation, heightened awareness, or spiritual awakening, incorporating the Three-Phase Breathing Technique into your daily routine can be a transformative step on the path to holistic well-being. So, take a deep breath, embrace the rhythm of the Three Phases, and embark on a journey of inner exploration and transformation.