Traditional pranayama, or breathing practice, is done on the floor with a cushion placed under the buttocks at the base of the spine. Tilt the pelvis slightly forward bringing the spine into alignment and opening the energy channels, or chakras, that are located along the spinal column. This position also places the diaphragm, abdominals, lungs, rib cage, intercostals and shoulders in the best locations for full, easy breathing.

Ujayii ("yoo-jai") breathing, or "victorious breath," aims to stretch each breath in order to give every cell of the body as much expansion as possible, leading to the expelling of toxins and the releasing of tension and stress. Constrict the throat as if swallowing while maintaining a minimal opening through which air can pass. As the breath passes through this opening, gently scrape it against the back of the throat. This will sound like hissing or the sound made by pronouncing the letter "h," as in the word hot.

Continue breathing this way as long and as slowly as you can. You may begin to feel a little lightheaded as you transform your state of body and mind. Visualize oxygen moving through your bloodstream and into every cell of every system of your body: nerves, glands, organs, brain, bones, ligaments, joints and muscles. Each cell expands fully with each inhalation and is cleansed and healed with each exhale. During asana practice, it is this breathing practice that allows us to move deeper into each posture.

Take 10 to 12 slow ujayii breaths and then sit still and feel the calm. Start to pay attention to the life force moving through you. Observe how it can help you center yourself in even the most challenging situations. Breathe deeply and give thanks for the precious gift of life.

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