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In Sanskrit, Bhastrika means “bellows”. Just as the blacksmith blows the bellows to create more heat, by drawing and expelling of air, Bhastrika serves to increase energy (amongst other things), by the drawing of air in and out of the lungs. Bhastrika is mentioned in two important yoga texts, Hatha Yoga Pradeepika and Gheranda Samhita. Bhastrika pranayama is a type of breathing technique. Oftentimes, compared to Kapalabhati pranayama.
Much like Kapalabhati pranayama, this is a more intermediate or vigorous technique.
Sit comfortably in a meditative position with your hands on your knees and with your eyes closed. Take a deep, slow breath. Breathe out quickly and forcefully through your nose. Then, inhale immediately afterwards with the same force.
When you exhale, the stomach retracts. When you inhale, the abdomen expands. This movement should be emphasized somewhat. Continue, counting to ten. Do three to five cycles. As you learn this breathing mode, gradually increase your speed while maintaining a rhythm. The time of inhalation and exhalation should be the same.
The practice of Bhastrika Pranayama can be considered a combination of Kapalabhati and Ujjayi pranayama. The exhalation is similar to that in Kapalabhati. The inhalation is similar to that performed in Ujjayi pranayama. Once you have practiced Kapalabhati and Ujjayi, Bhastrika will become easier to perform.
Bhastrika can be practiced both in the morning and in the evening. During the summer, with elevated temperatures, limit the practice to the morning or cooler hours. This pranayama is considered an advanced practice. It must be done on an empty stomach.
Contraindications may be those that suffer from have heart disease or have respiratory ailments. Bhastrika pranayama is one of the most powerful pranayama’s. As such, it’s advisable to practice under the guidance of a qualified yoga instructor.
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