The Sanskrit word Pranayama breaks down into prana (life force) and ayama (to extend or control). It refers to the conscious regulation of breath to influence the body, mind, and nervous system.
At Repose Yoga, Pranayama is never an afterthought. Each technique is taught carefully and progressively, helping you build a safe and effective breath practice — even if you’re completely new.
We teach breathing techniques not just for their calming effect, but because how you breathe affects how you move, how you focus, and how you heal.
You won’t need to book a separate Pranayama class here — because it’s already woven into the fabric of each practice:
– In Hatha Yoga, breath cues support alignment and build breath awareness
– In Vinyasa, breath is your guide, leading each movement in a flowing sequence
– In Restorative Yoga, breath becomes the bridge into deep rest and nervous system repair
Toward the end of each class, we always include one or more traditional techniques to settle the system and ground your energy.
Some of the breathing techniques you’ll be guided through include:
– Nadi Shodhana – alternate nostril breathing for emotional and energetic balance
– Kapalabhati – an energising and cleansing technique to stimulate digestion and mental clarity
– Bhastrika – a bellows-style breath that energises the entire system
– Ujjayi – a slow, audible breath that brings calm and focus, especially during movement
These are always taught with close attention to safety and precision — because breathwork done correctly is powerful. You’ll be supported in learning how to practice safely, so the techniques actually work for your body and nervous system.
Modern science is catching up to what yoga has known for centuries: your breath is a direct line to your wellbeing.
Research now shows that breathwork can:
– Activate the parasympathetic nervous system
– Improve heart rate variability (HRV) and emotional regulation
– Reduce symptoms of anxiety, depression, and insomnia
– Lower blood pressure and reduce physical tension
A 2022 study even found that a single session of moderate-intensity Pranayama improved mood and HRV in adults experiencing anxiety and depression.
Read more in our blog.
Pranayama is suitable for all levels — whether you’re brand new to yoga or have been practising for years.
It’s especially helpful if you:
– Feel overwhelmed, anxious or overstimulated
– Want to improve focus, clarity and calm
– Are looking to balance out physical yoga with more internal awareness
– Have trouble sleeping or find it difficult to relax
– Are curious about deepening your practice beyond movement
Our small class sizes (max 8 students) mean we can support you closely, especially if you’re recovering from illness, injury, or feeling unsure.
No. We teach each technique step-by-step and always explain how to do it safely.
Yes. Breath regulation techniques are proven to activate the relaxation response, helping reduce stress and support sleep.
Yes. All of our yoga classes include breath awareness and a guided Pranayama technique near the end of the session.
No. Just your breath and an open mind. If you’re practising at home, a quiet space is helpful — but not essential.
Classes pause 18 Dec-15 Jan 2026.
Wishing you a Merry Christmas & Happy New Year!
All class passes extended by 4 weeks.
© 2024 Repose Yoga.