Seated yoga – Pranayama breathing

Check in with your body, spend some time seeing how you’re feeling and learn to breathe deeply and mindfully in this seated yoga session. Feel free to do mini-yoga activity anytime you need a little break, or as part of a longer practice. This is video one of a series of six. 

This guide is part of our Sense Arts, Sport & Wellbeing programme. This activity can be done at a time that suits you, either in your own space or in an educational setting.

Who is this for?

This is a workshop for people who are deafblind or have complex disabilities and can be enjoyed by anyone.

Why does this make a difference?

This is a wellbeing activity that helps people use their senses to connect with their surroundings, exploring touch by exploring mindfulness, relaxation and movements, supporting self-expression, individuality and understanding.

What happens in the video?

Step 1

Before you get started, make sure you have a clear space around you, a chair nearby, a glass of water and remember to take breaks if you need.

Step 2

Find a neutral sitting position, with a long spine. Take your gaze down to the floor, and close your eyes.

Step 3

Spend some time noticing any sounds you can hear, or feelings you can feel – follow along with the video. When you’re done, take a really nice big sigh and open your eyes, inhaling through the nose and out through the mouth.

Step 4

Place your hands on your belly, and notice how it moves as you breathe.

Step 5

Then place your fingertips on your collar bones, and notice how that feels, again closing your eyes if you feel comfortable.

Step 6

To do Uji or yogic breathing, constrict the back of your throat and breathe in and out through the nose, so it makes a sound like a wave. Think about how breathing like this is affecting your pelvic floor and see if you can sense any difference.

This activity was created by yoga teacher Rebecca.