Vyagraha Pranayama Or Tiger Breath



The Tiger Breath is a great method to build diaphragm strength for lower and mid-breathing. 


  • This breathing practice, which mimics the breath movement of big cats, is highly recommended for increasing lung capacity, stamina, and physical attractiveness. 
  • The breath of the big cat family has evolved in such a way that it can move quietly yet swiftly, pounce and jump vast distances with powerful, elastic muscles. 
  • The secret to this tremendous strength when on all fours is the diaphragm and the arching of the back. 
  • Take note of how the tamed cat uses the same kind of breathing to retain its lean strength. 

I sincerely hope that via your yoga practices, you develop into a powerful, ferocious "Tiger" or "Lion". 



Steps to Perform Vyagraha Pranayama:




  • Take a deep inhale and allow the abdomen sink towards the floor while kneeling on all fours (as in Chatus Pada). 


  • Maintain a high head position. 
  • Arch your back as high as you can on the exhaled breath, dropping your head between your arms and shoulders. 
  • Before relaxing back onto the heels in Vajra Asana for some calm, automatic breathing, repeat the whole breath cycle three to six times. 


  • The Tiger Breath is then repeated a second time.


~ Kiran Atma


You may also want to read more about Yoga here.

You may also want to read more about Yoga Asanas and Exercises here.