Mastering the Om Breath: A Guide for Yoga Teachers

Pranayama Teacher Training

Mastering the Om Breath: A Mini Guide for Yoga Teachers

Discover the art of teaching the Om Breath in this mini guide for yoga teachers. Part of our Pranayama Teacher Training series, this post offers step-by-step instructions, benefits, and tips to help your students connect deeply with their breath and inner peace.

Om Breath In 6 Steps

Here are my six steps for teaching Om Breath. 

Step 1: Sit
Sit comfortably.

Step 2: Open Mouth
Open mouth fully as you inhale, as if to “inhale” the “A” sound itself, creating the intention of the sound before the sound actually begins. As you begin to make the “A” sound, raise arms to side, as if opening to embrace the universe.

Step 3: Extend Arms
As your voice transitions to the “U” sound, extend arms to front, as if to hold something precious and powerful in your hands.

Step 4: Visualise A Shape
Visualise a shape that is round and energetic manifesting between palms of your hands.

Step 5: Hands To Heart 
Gliding from “U” to “M” sound, bring hands, and whatever they may contain, to your heart centre. 

Step 6: Palms To Chest 
Now in the bliss of silence, bring palms to chest, pressing them lovingly to your heart.

3 Sitting Positions

Here are three sitting positions for Om Breath. 

1. 1. Hero Pose
   2. Easy Pose
   3. Perfect Pose

 

10 Benefits Of The Om Breath

Here are ten benefits of the Om Breath. 

Benefit 1: Promotes Deep Relaxation
The Om Breath activates the parasympathetic nervous system, helping students relax deeply and release tension.

Benefit 2: Enhances Focus and Clarity
Synchronising the breath with the chanting of Om fosters mental clarity and sharpens focus.

Benefit 3: Balances Energy (Prana)
The rhythmic vibration of Om harmonises the flow of energy throughout the body, promoting balance.

Benefit 4: Reduces Stress and Anxiety
Practising the Om Breath calms the mind and alleviates stress, anxiety, and overwhelm.

Benefit 5: Improves Respiratory Efficiency
Deep, controlled breathing during the Om Breath strengthens lung capacity and respiratory function.

Benefit 6: Deepens Meditation Practice
The Om Breath supports a meditative state, making it easier to connect with the inner self.

Benefit 7: Supports Emotional Healing
The soothing sound and rhythm of Om help release suppressed emotions and promote healing.

Benefit 8: Aligns Body, Mind, and Spirit
Chanting Om during the breath brings a sense of unity and alignment within.

Benefit 9: Improves Vocal Strength and Resonance
The practice strengthens vocal cords and enhances the resonance of the voice.

Benefit 10: Cultivates Inner Peace
The Om Breath creates a calming vibration that fosters a sense of profound inner peace and well-being.

10 Breathing Tips For The Om Breath

Here are ten breathing tips for the Om Breath. 

Breathing Tip 1: Start with Centring
Before beginning the Om Breath, take a moment to ground yourself. Focus on steady, natural breathing to establish a calm baseline.

Breathing Tip 2: Breathe Deeply into the Belly
Inhale deeply, allowing the breath to fill the belly before moving into the chest. This diaphragmatic breathing creates a strong foundation for the Om vibration.

Breathing Tip 3: Synchronise Breath and Chant
Ensure the length of your exhalation matches the duration of your Om chant. The chant should flow seamlessly with your breath.

Breathing Tip 4: Keep the Inhalation Silent
Focus on a smooth and silent inhalation through the nose to create a natural rhythm without disrupting the meditative flow.

Breathing Tip 5: Extend the “M” Sound
While chanting Om, elongate the humming “M” sound to encourage resonance and calmness in the body.

Breathing Tip 6: Focus on Vibrations
Feel the vibrations of Om resonate through your body, particularly in the chest, throat, and head. This enhances awareness and relaxation.

Breathing Tip 7: Maintain a Relaxed Pace
Avoid rushing. Allow your breath to flow naturally and chant Om at a comfortable, relaxed tempo.

Breathing Tip 8: Use Nasal Breathing
Inhale and exhale through the nose to encourage deeper, more efficient breathing and to maintain a meditative state.

Breathing Tip 9: Adjust for Individual Comfort
Chant Om at a pitch and volume that feels natural and comfortable for your unique voice and breath.

Breathing Tip 10: Practice Equal Breathing
Focus on equalising the length of your inhalations and exhalations. This balance promotes steadiness and helps maintain the rhythm of the Om Breath.

That’s it. Hope you enjoyed my mini guide to the Om Breath.

Hey, I almost forgot.

If you liked the Om Breath mini guide, you’ll love my Blissful Breathing Card Deck, because it’s your go-to resource for mastering the art of pranayama (yogic breathing).

Blissful Breathing Card Deck

The Blissful Breathing Card Deck is your go-to resource for mastering the art of pranayama (yogic breathing). With 41 beautifully designed cards, this Blissful Breathing Card Deck guides you through a wide variety of breathing techniques to enhance relaxation, focus, and vitality. Each card provides step-by-step instructions, benefits, and tips for incorporating the practice into daily life. Whether you’re a yoga teacher looking to inspire your students, a beginner exploring breathwork, or simply seeking tools to manage stress, this Blissful Breathing Card Deck offers accessible techniques to cultivate inner peace and well-being. Breathe blissfully, anytime, anywhere.