"If there is anything Divine in you, it is your breath". - Yogi Bhajan
The first and last things we do in this physical lifetime are to take a breath. The breath contains prana, the life force that energizes the mind, body and consciousness. Kundalini Yoga employs a wide range of pranayam, using the breath to effect and manage different states of consciousness, relaxation, and well-being.
Long Deep Breathing - is used to calm the mind; balance the emotions; harmonize the body, mind and spirit.
Alternate Nostril Breathing - used to energize and calm the nervous system.
Breath of Fire - used to strengthen the nervous system; purify the bloodstream; energize, stimulate, wake up, and increase vitality.
Suspending the Breath - used to recondition the nervous system; integration of the body systems; experience deep stillness, shuniya.
And some other pranayams: Segmented Breath, Sitali Breath, Cannon Breath, Whistle Breath, Lion Breath, Sitkari Breath, Vatskar Breath.
The breath is a fundamental tool for the Kundalini Yoga student. The avarage rate of breathing for most people is about sixteen times per minute. When the rate of breathing increases, or if it becomes rapid and irregular, the mind also becomes disturbed and erratic. Your rate of breathing and your state of mind are inseparable. The slower your rate of breathing, the more control you have over your mind. The mind follows the breath, and the body follows the mind.