Which breathing technique is most commonly used in yoga?

Ujjayi breath is a fundamental breathing technique frequently utilized in yoga practice, known for its calming and meditative effects. This technique involves slightly constricting the throat while breathing through the nose, which creates a sound similar to ocean waves. Ujjayi breath helps to regulate the flow of breath, enhances focus, and provides a sense of warmth within the body, making it particularly beneficial during asana practice.

The prevalence of Ujjayi breath in various yoga styles, especially Vinyasa and Ashtanga, underscores its importance in promoting synchronization between movement and breath, facilitating a deeper mind-body connection. This connection not only enhances physical performance but also encourages mindfulness, which is a central element of yoga.

In contrast, while the other breathing techniques mentioned can be valuable in specific contexts—such as Kapha breath, which helps energize, Bhramari breath, notable for its humming effect that calms the mind, and Nadi Shodhana, which balances the body's energies—the widespread use of Ujjayi breath across many yoga traditions solidifies its status as the most commonly employed technique.