Cleanse and tone up your respiratory system by releasing toxins and waste matter by adopting an internal purification Kriya (practice), named as ‘Kapalbhati Pranayama’. It refreshes and rejuvenates the mind and body and is considered as one of the most practiced breathing exercise around the globe.
Instructions:
- Sit in a cross legged posture with spine comfortably erected. If needed, use a back rest, but no head rest. Doing the kriya facing east offers extra benefits. Keep your hands upon your thighs with your palms facing upwards, with your face slightly upturned. Keep your thumb tips and index finger in contact.
- Inhale deeply through nose, expanding your abdomen.
- Now, exhale with great force to contract your abdominal muscles to the maximum.
- Make sure, while exhaling, air is pushed out of the lungs contracting the diaphragm.
- Inhale again, this time without any effort. For this, relax your lungs and they will automatically expand by the air inside.
- A single cycle of Kapalabhati Pranayama includes deep inhalation, forceful exhalation followed by an effortless inhalation.
- Once you get comfortable with this internal body cleansing Kriya, perform it with more force if possible, increasing the number of repetitions.
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When to practice?
Kapalabhati must be practiced with an empty stomach or 2-3 hours after a meal. It is your own choice whether you want to practice it as a stand-alone or combine it with other Yoga Kriyas like different Asanas or meditation. People who find it difficult to sit down on the floor, can perform it on a chair.
Kapalbhati Pranayama Benefits
- Treats common cold, asthma and improves respiratory disorders. Oxygen holding capacity of lungs increases and oxygen & carbon-dioxide exchange is facilitated.
- Has a positive effect on the functioning of nervous system by enhancing the functioning of brain cells.
- Maintains the blood pressure and keeps a check on blood pumping rate of the heart.
- Reduces the chances of heart problems such as heart attack and heart stroke.
- Provides a natural cure for diabetes, sinus, obesity, constipation and even hair loss.
- Cures mental and emotional problems by unlocking blockages by means of providing emotional satisfaction and mental peace.
- Brings radiance and glow to the body.
- Makes skin healthy and beautiful by purifying blood.
- Works as a great pain reliever and also provides relief from muscular and skeletal pain.
- Improves the body posture and enhances flexibility of joints.
IMPORTANT: Avoid practicing Kapalbhati Pranayam in the following health conditions
a) Heart disease
b) Hernia
c) High blood pressure
d) If dizziness or pain is experienced, practice it with less force.
b) Hernia
c) High blood pressure
d) If dizziness or pain is experienced, practice it with less force.
Click the given link and learn more about the benefits of deep breathing exercises to bring a positive change in your life! - Deep Breathing Exercises & Their Benefits
