Ujjayi

Ujjayi is also known as the loud breathing technique and is performed by breathing through both nostrils while keeping the glottis closed to a degree.  This is used to increase control over lung activity.  It is also a method of clearing the throat.  The name comes from the fact that the air passing through the partially closed glottis makes a constant sound.  Yogis try to eliminate the sounds and to keep the constant air flow and sound on a harmonious tone.

To correctly practice this method, use a chin lock and employ the closure of both nostrils.  Keep the pause for as long as possible and gently exhale at the end. The left nostril is generally used to expel the air.  If the nostrils were closed with the fingers simply release the pressure off the left nostril and the air will flow out naturally.  While releasing the nostril try to unlock the chin and open the glottis to a higher extent. 

Inhaling should take half the time as exhaling.  The precise inhalation and exhalation time is different for each person and should be discovered easily while practicing Ujjayi.  Holding the pause for a long time between inhaling and exhaling may be difficult at first but in time the pause will become as long as the exhalation time.