Lions Breath
Lions breath is also known as simha pranayama.
How to do it:
Start in a seated position, start to take a few deep inhales and exhales. Once you feel ready you can take a deep inhale and open the mouth wide, make a large exhale while opening the mouth as wide as you can, and engaging the chin and neck as you also stick out the tongue.
Benefits:
Stretches the muscles in the face, neck, and throat
Relieves tension and tightness
Improves circulation
Energetic and awakening
Eases the mind
Helps relieve TMJ
Relieves headaches
Helps open the throat chakra (Vishudha)
Bandhas that could be used:
Mulabanda
Jalandhara bandha
Contradictions:
Attempt this breath carefully if you have had a recent or chronic neck or face or tongue injury.
_Jessica Schermeister