Ujjayi Breath (Ocean Breath)
Ujjayi means 'victorious'. A gentle narrowing at the back of the throat creates a soft, ocean-like sound and slows the breath. In flowing yoga styles it helps you keep a steady rhythm and attention.
- Time
- Throughout asana practice, or 5 minutes seated
- Level
- Beginner
- Position
- Seated or during movement
- Best for
- Vinyasa and Ashtanga practice, focus, steady pacing
Step by step
How to practise
- 01
Sit tall and breathe through the nose.
- 02
Exhale through an open mouth as if fogging a mirror — notice the throat.
- 03
Close the mouth and keep that slight narrowing as you exhale through the nose.
- 04
Now keep the same gentle narrowing as you inhale.
- 05
The breath should make a soft, even sound, audible only to you or a neighbour.
- 06
Keep the face and jaw relaxed.
Make it work for you
Small adjustments make the biggest difference. Keep every breath comfortable.
Tips
- Softer is better — it should never rasp
- Use it to pace your movements in flow
Common mistakes
Constricting the throat too hard or making the sound loud.
Why practise it
Slows and steadies the breath and helps focus during practice.
In the tradition
Listed among the eight classical kumbhakas in the Hatha Yoga Pradipika.
Practise with care
Safety
Ease off if you feel strain in the throat or lightheadedness.
Educational guidance, not medical advice. If you are pregnant or managing a heart, lung, blood-pressure or mental-health condition, check with a qualified professional first.
Questions
Should I use Ujjayi in every yoga class?
It is central to vinyasa and Ashtanga; gentle and restorative styles usually use natural breathing.
Keep exploring
All techniquesBreath Awareness
Simply watching the natural breath without changing it — the foundation of every pranayama and meditation practice.
Sama Vritti (Equal Breathing)
Breathe in and out for the same count to create a steady, balanced rhythm that settles the mind.
Bhramari (Humming Bee Breath)
A soothing humming exhale that many people find quickly calms the mind — easy to learn and suitable for most beginners.