4 easy breathing techniques

Sanskrit name: Kappalabatti
Translation: 'Skull shining'
What it does: Clears the sinsuses, creates heat, stimulates the digestive organs
How to do it: Sit in a cross-legged position. Inhale a medium-sized breath. Exhale sharply through the nose, drawing the navel in towards the spine as you do so. Release the belly to let the inhale flow in, then exhale sharply again. Do 10 breaths at whatever pace feels good to you - experiment with the speed. Slow down your last breaths before exhaling completely to finish.
When to do it: In the morning to 'clear your head' and at the beginning of your yoga practice to get the body going
Precautions: Because it generates heat, don't do this when it's hot or if you're feeling light-headed.

Sanskrit Name: Nadi shodhanam
Translation: 'Channel purification'
English name: Alternate nostril breathing
What it does: Brings the two sides of the body and brain into balance and calms the mind
How to do it: Sit in a comfortable cross-legged position. Fold the first two fingers of your right hand into your palm and bring the hand up to your face. Let the ring finger rest on the left side of your nose, and the thumb on the right side. Inhale to a comfortable level. Gently block off your right nostril with your thumb and exhale through your left nostril. Hold the position as you inhale through the left nostril. Release your thumb and gently block your left nostril with the ring finger. Exhale through the right nostril, then inhale. Repeat this cycle, slowly and gently, five times. End after an exhalation through your left nostril.
When to do it: When you're anxious, can't sleep or are feeling out of whack for any reason
Precautions: If you're congested, this breath can be frustrating. Like all forms of pranayama, if you're getting worked up over mastering this breath, it's time to step away and - literally - take a breather.