Srivatsa Ramaswami was taught Yoga Sutra 2:47 by Krishnamacharya and his interpretation is worthwhile looking at when dealing with the breath particularity in asana.

2:47 prayatna-saithilya-nanta-samapattibhyam

By making the breath smooth and long and concentrating the mind on the breath, the perfection of the posture is obtained.

He states that 2:46 (refer to day 10) and 2:47 form the four main parameters of asana practice.

Asana practice: Steadiness (stability), relaxation (comfort), smoothness of breath and vigilant focus on the breath.

Sthiratva: steadiness

Sukhatva: comfort

Prayatna-shaitilya: Smoothness of breath

Ananta-samapatti: Unwavering focus upon the breath

BKS Iyengar’s translation is different:

prayatna saithilya ananta samapattibhyam

Perfection in asana is reached only when effort ceases, instilling infinite poise and allowing the finite vehicle, the body, to merge in the seer.

~ Source: English translation from Light on the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali (B.K.S. Iyengar)

Check out BKS Iyengar demonstrating the Ujjayi breath:

BKS IYENGAR DEMONSTRATES UJJAYI BREATH

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