As breathwork continues to gain popularity for its physical, mental, and emotional benefits, many are turning to pranayama—the yogic art of breath control—as a daily wellness practice. With countless teachers and platforms offering guidance, it can be overwhelming to know where to begin. Whether you’re a beginner or an advanced practitioner, the right teacher can deepen your understanding and help you reap the full benefits of pranayama. Here’s a curated list of the top pranayama teachers and online resources to follow in 2025.
Why Follow a Pranayama Teacher or Online Resource?
Learning pranayama from an experienced guide helps ensure:
- Proper breathing techniques and safety
- Personalized guidance for specific needs (anxiety, energy, sleep, etc.)
- Structured practices and progressions
- A deeper connection to the ancient wisdom behind breathwork
With the expansion of digital platforms, access to world-class instructors has never been easier.
1. Sri Sri Ravi Shankar – The Art of Living
Platform: artofliving.org
Sri Sri Ravi Shankar has brought yogic breathing techniques to millions worldwide. His Sudarshan Kriya and breathwork programs emphasize emotional cleansing and mental clarity. The Art of Living app and courses offer guided pranayama with structured progression.
Best for: Beginners to intermediate practitioners seeking spiritual and emotional well-being through breath.
2. Rod Stryker – ParaYoga
Platform: parayoga.com
Rod Stryker’s teachings dive deep into the energetics of pranayama. Through the ParaYoga Master Trainings and the Four Desires workshops, he offers advanced breathwork for those looking to expand their spiritual and energetic practices.
Best for: Intermediate to advanced yogis focused on subtle body mastery.
3. Eddie Stern – Breathing App & Yoga365
Platform: eddiestern.com
A well-known New York yoga teacher and author, Eddie Stern combines science and tradition in his breathwork teachings. His Breathing App, co-developed with Deepak Chopra, makes coherence and resonance breathing accessible to everyone.
Best for: Tech-savvy users and wellness seekers looking for simplicity and results.
4. Kia Miller – Radiant Body Yoga
Platform: kiamiller.com
Kia Miller integrates Kundalini yoga and breathwork into her Radiant Body Yoga method. She offers online classes, teacher trainings, and immersions that highlight the power of pranayama for energy and transformation.
Best for: Those interested in Kundalini breathwork and spiritual growth.
5. James Nestor – Author of Breath
Platform: Book & media appearances
While not a yoga teacher, James Nestor has revolutionized how modern audiences view breath with his bestselling book Breath: The New Science of a Lost Art. His exploration of ancient pranayama alongside modern science bridges gaps between tradition and wellness trends.
Best for: Readers and skeptics seeking evidence-based breath knowledge.
6. Elena Brower – Insight Timer & Glo
Platform: elenabrower.com, Insight Timer, Glo
A renowned yoga and meditation teacher, Elena’s pranayama guidance is gentle, accessible, and rich in mindfulness. Her sessions on Insight Timer and Glo integrate breathing, meditation, and intention-setting.
Best for: Busy professionals looking for calm, grounding guidance.
7. Swami Saradananda – Traditional Yoga and Pranayama
Platform: swami-saradananda.com
An author and disciple of Swami Vishnudevananda, Swami Saradananda teaches classic pranayama techniques rooted in traditional Hatha Yoga. Her books and workshops offer clarity and depth for serious students.
Best for: Traditionalists and self-paced learners.
8. Yoga International
Platform: yogainternational.com
This robust platform features pranayama courses and classes from respected teachers like Gary Kraftsow, Sandra Anderson, and Doug Keller. With video tutorials, series, and articles, Yoga International is a comprehensive hub.
Best for: All levels, especially those who like variety and in-depth courses.
9. Sadhguru – Isha Foundation
Platform: isha.sadhguru.org
Sadhguru offers yogic breathing techniques such as Simha Kriya and Shambhavi Mahamudra through Isha Foundation. His style blends ancient wisdom with modern practicality, focusing on clarity, energy, and inner stillness.
Best for: Seekers exploring the spiritual roots of pranayama.
10. YouTube Channels: Free & Reliable Options
- Yoga with Adriene: Occasional breathwork woven into asana
- Brett Larkin Yoga: Offers structured pranayama tutorials
- The Mindful Movement: Deep relaxation and breath practices
- Satyananda Yoga Centre: Guided traditional pranayamas
Best for: Casual learners, free content seekers, and beginners.
Conclusion
Following the right pranayama teacher or resource in 2025 can elevate your practice, deepen your awareness, and guide you toward holistic health. Whether you’re drawn to traditional lineage, scientific research, or tech-based solutions, there’s a perfect fit for your breath journey. Start small, stay consistent, and allow your breath to become your most powerful tool for transformation.