Ujjayi
[2] [3] Inhalation and exhalation are both done through the nose and the resultant sound must be audible enough for the practitioner to hear but not so loud as to be heard by someone standing six feet away.It also helps build energy to maintain the practice while simultaneously clearing toxins out of the body[citation needed].This technique is especially important during the transition into and out of asanas (postures) as it helps practitioners stay present, self-aware and grounded in the practice, which is then endowed with a meditative quality.Sometimes referred to as "cobra breathing", it is also a helpful way for the yogi or yogini to keep their vital life force (prana) circulating throughout the body, rather than escaping from it.Ujjayi is said to be similar to the breathing of a new-born baby before their prana begins to flow out into sensual perceptions and mental activity.