Answers from the Expert
 

In this weekly column, our founder and teacher Sri TKV Desikachar answers questions on different aspects of yoga. Features here are excerpts from Darsanam, a quarterly magazine that was brought out by KYM between 1991-1995.

What is the purpose of conscious breathing in movements?
 
To make the movements conscious, conscious breathing is required. Here, we are referring to movements as a part of a yoga program. The breath indicates the stamina of a person in advance. It indicates the point of rest. Practice should always be within one's limit. Secondly, conscious breathing has an immediate effect on the spine. It improves the effect of the movements. When you inhale, the chest expands and the spine is straightened. Further, breath can be used as a tool to focus one's attention or to relax. Inhalation is used to focus one's attention and work on the chest. Exhalation is used to relax and work on the abdomen. Conscious breathing is one of the greatest tools to influence the effect of postures without changing the posture.
 
Photos Copyright © Kausthub Desikachar and KYM.
Site Designed, Developed and Maintained by Swathi Soft Solutions