Kapalabhati Pranayama

 

The term Kapalabhati means a pranayama that makes the skull shine. Kapala is a sanskrit word meaning skull and Bhati means shine.

 

Preparation.

Read general guidelines for pranayama before starting this pranayama.

• Sit on your favourite Asana (Padma asana, Vajra asana or Sukh asana) in a well ventilated room free from any distractions. Keep the waist, back, neck and spine erect.

• For the beginners, you can sit on a chair or sit cross legged on the yoga mat/ carpet keeping your back, neck and spine erect. Do not tax your body. Any time you feel discomfort, discontinue and take rest.

Steps

• There is no Kumbhaka (holding of breath) in this Pranayama. Perform Inhalation and exhalation rapidly.

• Exhalation plays a prominent part. Exhalation should be done quickly and forcibly by contracting the abdominal muscles with a backward push(towards the spine). Inhalation is mild, slow, in between two exhalations.

• Set up your exhalations in a slow rhythm and comfortable pace.

Practice

• Initially time out with one exhalation per second. Start with one set of 10 exhalations. Carry out 2 to 3 sets as long as you feel comfortable, do not stress your body. Gradually increase the number of exhalations per set to 100 (increase by 10 per week).

Benefits

• Lungs throw out carbon dioxide and get more oxygen.

• Improves blood circulation and respiratory system.

• Improves concentration and memory.

• Helps people with asthma.

Caution

• Kapalabhati pranayama is prohibited for heart patients and people with high blood pressure.

• If you experience any giddiness, stop the practice, rest and take normal breaths.

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