Breath of Fire

August 27, 1986

Breath of Fire is a powerful and energizing pranayama technique that helps clear the mind, detoxify the body, and boost energy. By practicing this technique, you engage both the physical body and the subconscious, releasing tension and emotional blockages. Breath of Fire has a calming effect while being simultaneously energizing, making it an effective practice for mental and emotional clarity. It helps bring peace, balance, and vitality to your life.

Illustration of Susan sitting in easy pose with hands in gyan mudra

Posture & Mudra:

Sit with a straight spine, keeping your posture firm and your chest lifted. The mudra changes during the practice, see Movement & Breath section.

Movement & Breath:

Begin Breath of Fire, a rapid, rhythmic breathing technique where the inhale and exhale are of equal length and powered by the diaphragm. It is important that you breathe through both nostrils without squeezing them, allowing the breath to flow freely. 

  • Start by taking a deep breath, then expel that breath by pulling the Navel Point (Manipura Chakra) in and back toward the spine. This movement contracts the diaphragm, pulling it up strongly to empty the lungs. 
  • Then relax the Navel Point, and simply allow this movement to draw the inhale in almost automatically. 

This movement expands the diaphragm, opening and enlarging it to fill the lungs. 

Continue breathing like this, until you get into a rhythm with even inhales and exhales. When you feel ready, increase your pace so you can complete 2-3 breath cycles per second.

  1. Continue Breath of Fire with your hands on your knees in Gyan Mudra for 7 minutes.
  2. Continue Breath of Fire with your hands on your knees in Shuni Mudra for 7 minutes.
  3. Continue Breath of Fire with your hands on your knees in Surya Mudra for 7 minutes.
  4. Continue Breath of Fire with your hands on your knees in Buddhi Mudra for 7 minutes.

Eyes/Drishti:

Maintain a gentle focus ahead or your eyes closed.

Mindful Attention:

As you practice Breath of Fire, focus on the movement of the breath from the diaphragm, the steady rhythm, and the energy that is being cultivated throughout the practice. Pay attention to the flow of energy and the sensations within your body, ensuring that the breath remains even and relaxed. It should feel like the momentum sustains it with little effort on your part.

Duration:

Continue for 7 minutes in each of the four mudras for a total of 28 minutes.

Ending:

  1. Inhale deeply and completely, suspend your breath, and remain still for 1 minute, exhale.
  2. Inhale deeply and hold for 1 minute, pray for your own peace and tranquility, then exhale.
  3. Inhale deeply and hold for 1 minute, offer a prayer for prosperity, health, or anything you truly desire, then exhale.