Why begin here
The first task is simply to notice. The practice below leaves the breath at its own depth and speed. Attention may return to the chair or the feet whenever watching the breath feels uncomfortable. Nothing needs to be achieved before you finish.
Attention and regulation
Breath awareness and a deliberately regulated breath are different activities. The Bihar teaching begins its discussion of prana with awareness of breathing; the ICYER account likewise places awareness within contemplation. Natural breath awareness is that modest starting point. Ordinary breathing and the many classical forms of pranayama remain distinct.
The complete guidance
Begin here
Natural Breath Awareness
Settle into your seat and notice the breath you already have.
Set up
Sit comfortably with your feet supported. Rest your hands on the thighs. Keep your eyes open or softly lowered.
How to practice
- Notice the next inhale and exhale without changing their depth or speed.
- Let the shoulders and jaw soften. You do not need to take a bigger breath.
- When attention wanders, gently return to the feeling of breathing.
- Finish by noticing your feet and the support of the chair.
Breath & pace
Stay for a few comfortable breaths. There is no target count and no breath hold.
Understanding the practice
Sooner or later the mind wanders off, and you will see it go. Noticing that and coming back belongs to this beginning practice. Nothing here asks you to produce a special experience, a sense of emptiness, or a state free of thought.
An original introductory attention practice, written for beginners.
An optional circle for attention
Move the point yourself if it helps you notice the breath. The circle does not set a breathing pace or measure your breathing.
Sources and scope
Main edition
Passage for this reading
- YOGA, October 2020
“Importance of Breath Awareness,” printed pp. 36 to 38.
Bihar School of Yoga. “Importance of Breath Awareness,” pp. 36 to 38; “Bhramari,” pp. 49 to 50. Teaching statements are not adopted as medical claims.
- Basic Practice of Some Pranayamas
“Pranayamas for contemplation and meditation,” PDF p. 5.
Ananda Balayogi Bhavanani, International Centre for Yoga Education and Research. Source page numbering refers to the PDF; hand descriptions compared independently.
What this edition covers
A modern introductory adaptation with complete guidance and source comparisons.
Limits and differences
The prose above identifies material differences. Traditional explanations and promised attainments are attributed to their sources; they are not clinical evidence. Review date: September 11, 2026.