Pranayama: The Foundation of Yogic Breath

Pranayama translates to "life force (prana) extension (ayama)". Through conscious breathing exercises, pranayama:

• Increases lung capacity and oxygen intake
• Detoxifies the body
• Calms the mind and reduces stress
• Enhances focus and concentration
• Prepares the body for deeper meditation

Atha Yogshala offers a variety of pranayama techniques tailored to your experience level. Our expert instructors will guide you through proper breathing patterns, helping you establish a strong foundation for your yoga practice.

Ashtanga Kumbhaka: Mastering Breath Retention

Ashtanga Kumbhaka, also known as "Eight-part breath retention" is an advanced pranayama technique that involves a specific sequence of inhalation, exhalation, and breath retention (both internal and external). This practice:

• Purifies the subtle energy channels (nadis)
• Awakens inner fire (agni)
• Enhances mental clarity and focus
• Promotes a deep meditative state

Experience Pranayama & Ashtanga Kumbhaka at Atha Yogshala

Whether you're a seasoned yogi or new to the practice, Atha Yogshala offers a transformative journey through pranayama and ashtanga kumbhaka.

• Group Classes:Join our pranayama classes designed for all levels. Learn the fundamentals of yogic breathing and progress towards ashtanga kumbhaka under the guidance of our experienced instructors.
• Workshops:Deepen your understanding with our pranayama workshops. Explore the theory and practice of ashtanga kumbhaka in a focused setting.
• Private Sessions:Receive personalized instruction tailored to your needs and goals. Our instructors will guide you safely towards mastering ashtanga kumbhaka.

Unleash the Potential Within

• Refine your breath, enhance your practice, and experience the profound benefits of pranayama and ashtanga kumbhaka at Atha Yogshala. Contact us today to embark on this transformative journey.

What is Ashta Kumbhaka?

• Ashtanga Kumbhaka, literally translating to "eight potfuls," refers to a group of eight advanced pranayama practices within the yogic tradition. Kumbhaka itself signifies breath retention, a cornerstone of pranayama (yogic breathing). These eight techniques delve deeper into breath control, aiming to awaken subtle energies and enhance yogic experiences.

The Eightfold Path of Breath Retention

The eight practices of Ashta Kumbhaka are:

• Surya Bhedana:Piercing the sun, focusing on the right nostril for inhalation and expelling through the left.
• Ujjayi:Victorious, creating a smooth, hissing sound during inhalation and exhalation.
• Sitkari:Hissing, cooling the body through rapid inhalation through the teeth and slow exhalation through the nose.
• Sitali:Cooling, similar to Sitkari but inhaling through the curled tongue.
• Bhastrika:Bellows breath, a powerful technique with forceful exhales and inhales.
• Bhramari:Bee breath, humming during exhalation to create a calming effect.
• Murccha:Fainting, an advanced practice leading to a state of deep relaxation.
• Plavini:Flooding, focusing on directing the breath to different parts of the body.

Exploring Ashta Kumbhaka at Athayogshala

At Athayogshala, we guide you on this transformative journey of Ashta Kumbhaka. Our experienced teachers will:

• Ensure a strong foundation in pranayama through beginner-friendly techniques.
• Progressively introduce the eight practices, emphasizing safety and control.
• Tailor the program to your individual needs and goals.
• Provide a supportive environment for exploration and inquiry.

Benefits of Ashta Kumbhaka

• Increased lung capacity and respiratory health.
• Enhanced focus and concentration.
• Deeper relaxation and stress management.
• Awakened inner energy and vitality.
• Improved mental clarity and emotional well-being