Breath of Fire is a powerful breathwork technique involving rapid, rhythmic breathing that has a cleansing and revitalising effect on the mind and body. This ancient practice has its roots in the teachings of Kundalini Yoga, often referred to as Agni Pranayam, or “Fire Breath.” The ancients believed that harnessing controlled breath cycles like Breath of Fire could unlock stores of prana, the life force energy.
The origins of Breath of Fire trace back thousands of years and it is mentioned in foundational yogic texts like the Gheranda Samhita and Hatha Yoga Pradipika. These texts describe it as one of the six cleansing practices used to purify the body and mind, preparing practitioners for deeper states of meditation. The imagery of fire is key to understanding the benefits of this powerful practice, symbolising transformation, purification, and vitality.
In modern yoga practice, Breath of Fire remains an integral part of Kundalini Yoga, as popularised by Yogi Bhajan in the 20th century.
What is Breath of Fire?
Breath of Fire involves short, rhythmic, fast paced breathing, designed to generate heat within the body’s energy centres. Unlike regular breathing, it involves passive inhalation and active exhalation. The exhale is full of energy and powered by the deep abdominal muscles pulling inward towards the naval. While the inhale is passive, with the air automatically flowing back into the lungs after each powerful exhale.
How to Start
- Begin seated with a straight spine. You can sit cross-legged, on a chair, or kneeling. Your chest should feel open and relaxed. Rest your palms on your knees or belly.
- Take a gentle inhale through your nose to prepare.
- Exhale forcefully through your nose while pulling your navel toward your spine.
- Let the air naturally flow back into your lungs after each quick exhale.
- Repeat this process, keeping your inhales and exhales quick, yet equal in length.
- Start with 15-30 seconds and gradually increase the duration as you grow more comfortable.
Breath of Fire might feel challenging at first, but over time, the rhythm will begin to feel natural as your muscle memory develops. As with any new practice, it takes patience and practice to learn and proper technique is key.
Tips for Practice
- Remember, both inhale and exhale durations must remain equal. Focus on rhythm, not force.
- Avoid over-recruiting your chest. This is a belly-centric practice. You can place a hand on your belly when you are first starting out to ensure proper movement.
- The tendency is to want to rush the rhythm when first starting out. Slow down and practice at a pace that is comfortable. One breath per second is a good guide for beginners. You can gradually build speed and duration as you grow comfortable.
- If you feel dizzy or lightheaded at any time, stop and return to normal breathing.
Daily Practice
Breath of Fire is a unique breathwork practice with potential that extends far beyond the yoga mat. The beauty of this practice is that it offers quick, tangible effects that you can integrate easily into your daily life.
It’s simplicity and power means you can use it in small moments of your day when you feel the need to reset, release or revitalise. You can use it to energise your mornings, centre yourself in the middle of a busy day, create focus during critical moments, or unwind from the day’s stress. Adjusting your practice effortlessly to suit your lifestyle.
You don’t need much time—just 2-5 minutes once or twice a day can make a difference. Over time, you will find that this technique can evolve into a life-changing practice. Transforming how you feel, think and move throughout the day.
