Sama Vritti or Equal Breathing is one of the most simple yogic breathing techniques and pranayama that can be practiced on its own and in a physical yoga practice.
If you don't have much experience in yogic breathing techniques I really recommend you start with this practice. It's a short and simple technique that can be easily learnt from memory. Benefits of Sama Vritti or Equal Breathing include helping to reduce stress, anxiety and bring you into the present moment.
Want to jump straight into a guided practice? Practice along with my YouTube video: 5 mins Equal Breathing.
In this 5 minute yogic breathing practice you’ll be guided through the Equal Breathing technique, also known as Sama Vritti Pranayama. During this short practice you’ll be guided through the breathing exercise and given tips on how you can adapt the technique to your own breath capacity.
What is Equal Breathing? What does Sama Vritti mean?
Sama Vritti is Sanskrit for equal breathing. The equal breathing practice focuses on lengthening equally your inhale and exhale. You can start to count your breath so that you find a slower, smooth and even breath.
Start by breathing in for a count of 4 and out for a count of 4. Repeat this for about 5 rounds. If it feels comfortable you can slowly build up to 5 rounds of a count of 5 and 6.
Inhale 1-2-3-4, Exhale 1-2-3-4 (repeat x 5)
Inhale 1-2-3-4-5, Exhale 1-2-3-4-5 (repeat x 5)
Inhale 1-2-3-4-5-6, Exhale 1-2-3-4-5-6 (repeat x 5)
Tips for Practice
If you like this breathing technique you can try practicing it a few times a week and learning it from memory. This will allow you to use this practice at any point you might need.
I personally enjoy using the Equal Breathing technique at different points in my day. Sometimes I practice it first thing in the morning when I don't have time for a full yoga practice but want to feel present during my day. Other times I might use it to relieve stress before an important presentation or even in the middle of the night when I have difficulty sleeping.
I'm curious to hear how you find the practice and when you find it most helpful. Let me know by adding a comment on this blog post!
Happy practicing! X Irene
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