Do you wake up feeling more exhausted than refreshed?

Try the Breath of Joy, an energizing practice that will fill you with vitality from your very first breath. Popularized in the Kripalu tradition by master teacher Lila Ostermann, this powerful technique helps clear the mind, activate the body, and uplift your spirit.

With deep breaths and dynamic arm movements, Breath of Joy increases the oxygen in your blood, awakens your vital energy (prana), gently stokes your inner fire (agni), and releases stored tension.
After just a few rounds, you’ll feel your system finding balance, your mind becoming clear, and your body coming alive. Yogis call this state sattva—a beautiful state of balance and serenity.

Precautions

Avoid this practice if you have high blood pressure, migraines, or eye conditions. If you feel dizzy, stop and return to normal breathing.

How to Practice

1. Stand with your feet hip-width apart, knees slightly bent.

2. Inhale one-third and lift your arms in front of you, palms facing up.

3. Inhale to two-thirds and open your arms wide to the sides like wings.

4. Inhale fully and raise your arms overhead, palms facing each other.

5. Exhale powerfully with a loud "haaa," bend your knees deeper, and swing your arms back behind you.

Repeat up to 9 times, without forcing. Then, close your eyes and feel the energy expanding throughout your body.

Energizing Variation

Add a seed mantra (bija) to amplify the effect:

• Arms forward: "va"

• Arms to the sides: "ra"

• Arms overhead: "ya"

• Exhaling: "haaa."

Make this simple ritual part of your mornings and feel your day transform from the very first breath.