What Is Breathwork and Why Do We Practise It?

Breathing is something we do all day without thinking about it.

But in yoga, we sometimes make the simple act of breathing part of the practice itself.

That's where breathwork comes in.

At its simplest, breathwork means deliberately paying attention to how you're breathing.

You might notice whether your breath feels shallow or easy.

You might slow it down.

You might connect your breathing with movement.

Or you might simply sit quietly and notice the breath without trying to change it.

There is no need to make it complicated.

You don't need special equipment.

You don't need a particular level of fitness.

You can practise sitting at your desk, lying down, standing in the kitchen or sitting on your yoga mat.

And sometimes that's exactly what we need.

A reminder that we can stop for a moment.

Notice.

Breathe.

Continue.

At Kin, breathwork isn't about forcing the breath or trying to achieve a particular state.

It's an invitation to become a little more aware.

Some days that might feel calming.

Other days you might simply notice how distracted you are.

Both are completely fine.

You don't need to “clear your mind”.

You just need to notice that you're here.

And take the next breath.