21 June
Yoga Day » Bhastrika Pranayama

Bhastrika Pranayama

Bhastrika Pranayama

Bhastrika in Sanskrit literally translated to “bellows”. The main aim of this pranayama is to purify the mind and the body, just as the blacksmith uses his bellow to blow air to generate heat and purify the iron. Bhastrika pranayama uses rapid inhalation and exhalation process. During the process on inhalation a contraction on the chest takes place which pushes the blood towards the head. During exhalation the opposite happens. This process helps to increase the vitality of the body on a whole.

Benefits of Bhastrika Pranayama
  • Practising Bhastrika pranayama on a regular basis helps to boost the overall immunity of the body.
  • It helps the practitioner to stay away from all types of respiratory problems.
  • It increases the oxygen supply in the body and purifies the blood
  • Regular practise can help the practitioner to achieve flawless and glowing skin
  • Bhastrika Pranayama also helps to cure depression and keeps negative thoughts at bay
  • This pranayama provides great relief to people suffering from in muscular dystrophy and oxygen deficiency disorders.
How to Practise Bhastrika Pranayama?
  • Sit in a either Padmasana, Siddhasana or Vajrasana depending on your level of comfort
  • Keep your body erect and try breathing in close succession
  • Start the process of rapid inhalation and exhalation. During this process a humming sound is common. Continue the process as long as you feel comfortable.
  • During the process of inhalation and exhalation make sure all the action is confined to your lungs and your abdominal is not participating in the breathing process.
  • Repeat this process every day for at least 10-15 minutes.
Precautions
  • Do no practise this pranayama if you are pregnant or suffer from high blood pressure related issues
  • If you are a beginner, go slow with the practise of inhaling or exhaling. Putting too much force on your lungs in the beginning and cause problem in breathing
  • Due to increased blood supply to the brains it is possible that you may feel lightheaded or a bit dizzy. Do not panic under such circumstances and discontinue the practise and restart on a slower note, when you feel comfortable.
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