Most yoga teachers are taught that chest opening is the key to better pranayama, but what if that’s actually the last thing to focus on?

In this solo episode, I share the five areas of asana practice that matter most when preparing the body for pranayama. We explore lung anatomy, spinal mobility, nervous system regulation, hip flexor tension, diaphragm function, and why true breath expansion comes from working with the whole body, not just the chest. If you want your pranayama practice to feel more effortless and effective, this episode offers a practical framework you can start applying right away.

Episode Highlights:

Common pranayama preparation myths
Body as the container of prana
Side and back body breathing
Lung anatomy and breath capacity
Spinal mobility for pranayama
False expansion through chest opening
Nervous system regulation through breath
Front body dominance and stress
Hip flexors and diaphragm function
Lower abdomen freedom for breathing
Chest opening as a result
Intelligent asana preparation framework
Breath literacy in practice
Actionable pranayama preparation steps

Pranayam Teacher Training 2026

Prana & Presence: An Immersive Week of Yoga, Stillness & Soulful Study in Southern Italy

Join our mailing list

Find all the resources mentioned in this episode

Connect with us on Instagram

Subscribe to Aham Yoga on YouTube

Let’s Talk Yoga Podcast on YouTube

Leave us a review and share this podcast with your friends!

What Most Yoga Teachers Get Wrong About Preparing for Pranayama

Let's Talk Yoga

What Most Yoga Teachers Get Wrong About Preparing for Pranayama