Those that practice regularly know about prana (sometimes called ‘prana vayu’), our in-breath that brings in life force to the body. ‘Apana-vayu’ is the out-breath which allows us to release toxins and stagnant energy. Apana is most activein the pelvis and lower abdomen and governs eliminative functions: excretion, urination, menstruation and when it is weak – reproduction. This can cause dryness in the reproductive organs, irregular periods, blood clots, bloating.

We can nourish our apana-vayu by breathing deeply from the belly, allowing the diaphragm to move easily so that we can take slow deep inhales AND deep exhales. We can practice gentle twisting poses to free our erector muscles which sit each side of the spine and can compress our vertebrae if our out breath is tight. In the pelvis we can engage our root lock or ‘mula bandha’ – a gentle contraction of the muscles of the pelvic floor between the pubis and tailbone. When apana is supported our immune system is strong, we are fertile and grounded.

When you breathe – what feels easier, your in breath or your out breath? Remember, there is no judgement here, just feel. See if you can encourage your out breath to be long and smooth. Breathe out dullness and stagnation, release negative emotions and let them go…