When practicing yoga, breathing properly plays a very important role. I practice Ujjayi breath. It is often described as sounding like the ocean breathing in and
out. It creates internal heat in the body (which can help avoid injuries and creates flexibility) and connects the mind to the body by being another focus point.
Ujjayi is performed by lightly constricting the back of the throat. You close your lips and breath in and out through your nose. The inhale and exhale should be of similar length and never hurried. It should be very relaxing. You will hear a light sound coming from the back of your throat. When first learning it is best to just sit crossed-legged with closed eyes and just practice until if feels very natural. Once mastered while sitting, you will want to try breathing to your movements. Inhale with one move and exhale with the next move – synchronize each breath to a movement. I believe this breath makes you more powerful in your practice.