Breath of Fire

Breath of Fire (BOF) is a very important cleansing breath that is centered in the navel point.  The navel is the most active point in the entire body.  In Kundalini Yoga there are two points that we stir up energy - one is the pituitary gland and the other is the navel point.  BOF will cleanse your lungs and make them strong.  After doing Breath of Fire you will have good oxygen in your bloodstream and feel healthy and young.  Also, it is the best way to keep the blood purified.

This form of breath is done quite often in Kundalini Yoga.  The nature of Breath of Fire is that the exhale goes in and up naturally in the steady rhythm of motion.  BOF uses the action of the Navel Point.  The diaphragm does not move horizontally, it moves vertically.  With each exhale, think of the movement of the navel as moving naturally inwards with a distinct movement upwards, as well.  With the inhale, think of a downward release of the Navel Point.  Feel this breath as UP and DOWN rather than in and out.

Breath of Fire is relaxing, smooth and effortless.  Your abdomen is doing all of the work.  Breathe through the nose (unless otherwise specified) and relax the shoulders.  A sign that you are doing it incorrectly is scrunching the face.  It shows that you are using the wrong muscles and navel incorrectly.  I always suggest starting BOF slow, and as you get more comfortable with it, then you can increase speed.  I posted a few videos below that demonstrate BOF.  Take a few minutes and practice....

Posture counts!!!!  Its SO important that your spine is straight and the rib cage is lifted.  The weight of the upper body should not hamper the pulsation of the navel.  The rest of your body should stay relatively calm and relaxed and only the navel point should work vigorously.  If you have issues beginning this breath -- practice it first by laying down and feeling (seeing) your navel point move.

Work on this before your next class it will help you tremendously in class and in daily life.

Much love and blessings,

YogArt Girl