Kapalbhati

What is Kapalbhati?

Kapalbhati is a powerful breathing technique in Yoga that involves fast or quick exhalations and passive inhalations. The name 'Kapalbhati' is derived from the Sanskrit words 'Kapal' (skull) and 'bhati' (shining or illuminating). It is often translated as 'Skull Shining Breath' or 'Frontal Brain Cleansing Breath'.

During Kapalbhati, the focus is on forcefully and rapidly trow out the breath through the nose by contracting the abdominal muscles, while the inhalation occurs naturally and passively. As a result, the exhalations are short, quick, and forceful, creating a pumping action in the abdomen.

The practice of Kapalbhati has multiple benefits. It helps cleanse and purify the respiratory system by throwing out stale air and lung toxins. It increases lung capacity and oxygenates the blood, improving overall respiratory function.

Kapalbhati also refreshes and energises the body. The rapid exhalations generate heat, increase metabolism, and stimulate the abdominal organs, enhancing digestion and elimination. It can provide a sense of revival and increased vitality.

Furthermore, Kapalbhati has a positive impact on mental and emotional well-being. The forceful exhalations activate the sympathetic nervous system, leading to a release of endorphins and a boost in mood. It helps reduce stress, anxiety, and mental fatigue, promoting a state of alertness, clarity, and focus.

Regular and consistent practice of Kapalbhati can offer numerous benefits for the respiratory system, energy levels, and mental well-being.

How to perform Kapalbhati?

Kapalbhati yoga helps people cleanse their respiratory system, strengthen their lungs, and feel more active. The following Kapalbhati steps can start you on your journey to wellness. For beginners, it's a good place to start for people who wish to transform their lives. Read more to find out how to do Kapalbhati:

• Find a comfortable seated position on a yoga mat or cushion. Sit with a tall and straight spine, and relax your shoulders and facial muscles.
• Take a few deep breaths to prepare yourself. Then, inhale deeply and exhale fully to clear the lungs.
• Begin by taking a passive inhalation, allowing the breath to flow into your abdomen and chest naturally.
• Now, forcefully and rapidly contract your abdominal muscles, pulling them towards your spine to exhale through your nose. The exhalation should be short, sharp, and forceful. Imagine you are forcefully expelling the air out.
• As you release the contraction of your abdominal muscles, allow the inhalation to happen naturally and passively. The inhalation should be relaxed and gentle, allowing the breath to flow back in.
• Repeat this cycle of forceful exhalations and passive inhalations, maintaining a steady rhythm. Start with a few rounds, gradually increasing the duration and intensity of the practice over time.
• Focus on the sensation of the breath moving in and out through the nostrils and the movement of the abdomen.
• Maintain awareness and mindfulness throughout the practice, keeping your attention on the breath and the movement of the abdominal muscles.
• After completing the desired rounds, release the Kapalbhati technique and return to normal, relaxed breathing. Then, take a few moments to observe the effects of the practice on your body and mind.

Start with a gentle pace and gradually increase speed and intensity as you become more comfortable with the technique. Practising Kapalbhati on an empty stomach and listening to your body's limits is essential. Slow down or stop the practice if you experience discomfort or dizziness. Some Kapalbhati precautions are that individuals with respiratory, high blood pressure, or abdominal conditions should seek guidance and modify the practice.