Kumbhaka: The Science of Breath Retention presented by Blair Lewis

Should we hold our breath? Ever?

The great sages and seers of yoga science say that there is a proper and precise method to use breath retention for perfection of one's meditation. While there are many do's and dont's in this science, tonight we will explore them, explain them and learn what is useful to practice right now.

This class is for all students of meditation and the yogic sciences. However, it is also designed to prepare the sincere yoga student and meditation practitioner in the science and prerequisites for breath retention (kumbhaka). The Hatha Yoga Pradipika lists eight types of breath retention and The Yoga Sutras of Patanjali describes only four types. We will start with Patanjali's guidance.

Your questions and your curiosity are most welcome!

Suggested Text:
Path of Fire and Light -- advanced practices of yoga by Swami Rama
Science of Breath -- a practical guide by Swami Rama, Rudolph Ballentine, MD and Alan Hymes, MD