Kaki (Beak) Breath ~ A Delightfully Simple Cooling + Calming Breath
I have found this breathing technique to be one of the simplest to teach, learn, and, most important, to make a regular part of my practice. I use it to cool down my body when I’m running or practicing an energizing yoga sequence, to quiet and center my mind while meditating or when a task that requires my full attention, and to feel relaxed if I’m ever feeling stressed.
You may practice this anywhere, at any time—sitting, standing, lying down or walking. With eyes opened or closed (as long as you’re not moving, that is!)
Begin by observing your natural breathing cycle for several moments. Use each exhale to relax your muscles and to feel connected to the earth. Use every inhale to create space in your body and to maintain a lengthened spine.
Relax your tongue and gently bring your lips together to form an “O” as if sipping through a straw. Allow your tongue to rest in your lower palate (perhaps touching the tip against the bottom teeth). Be sure to keep the lips softened—when pinched too tightly, you may feel deep creases in your lips and tension around your mouth and jaw.
Slowly inhale through your mouth. Feel the cool air flowing across your tongue. You may notice a sipping sound with the incoming breath, but don’t force it.
Close your mouth. Pause briefly to retain your breath for a beat or two. Feel the fullness of breath in your body.
CAUTION: Only hold your breath for as long as it is comfortable—you should never feel any strain, dizziness or light-headedness.
When you are ready to exhale, slowly breathe out through your nose. Feel the sense of relief in your body as it relaxes and becomes steady with this release of breath.
Continue this breathing pattern for 5 – 10 repetitions. Inhale through your mouth with softly pursed lips; exhale through your nose with your mouth closed and relaxed. Invite the cooling sensation to spread from your tongue to the rest of your body. Allow a sense of calm and ease to prevail. As you cycle slowly and steadily through this breathing pattern, notice your mind beginning to soften, sort, and settle into a steady rhythm of awareness.
Return to your natural breathing rhythm. Spend a few moments noticing thoughts, feelings and sensations without judgment. Delight in this quiet state of being—feeling cool, calm, and centered in body, breath and mind.
Tara Scott
August2014
Tara teaches Yin & Yang Yoga on Mondays at 6 p.m.
You can find more about Tara and her practice at 3JewelsYoga.com.