Breath of Fire
This breath is used consistently throughout Kundalini Yoga kriyas. It is very important that Breath of Fire be practiced and mastered by the student. In Breath of Fire, the focus of the energy is at the navel point. The breath is fairly rapid (2 to 3 breaths per second), continuous and powerful with no pause between the inhale and exhale. As you exhale, the air is pushed out by pulling the navel point and abdomen toward the spine. In this motion, the chest area remains fairly relaxed. The inhalation will occur naturally from the vacuum created on the exhale. This is a very balanced breath with no emphasis on either the exhale or the inhale, but rather equal power given to both. The inhale will feel easier than the exhale because the natural force of the diaphragm relaxing helps it.
Breath of Fire is a cleansing breath, renewing the blood and releasing old toxins from the lungs, mucous lining, blood vessels, and cells. It is a powerful way to adjust your autonomic nervous system and get rid of stress. Regular practice expands the lungs quickly. You can start with 3 minutes of Breath of Fire and build to 20 minutes . Begin by alternating 3 minutes of Breath of Fire with 2 minutes of rest for 5 complete sets of breath/relaxation.