Kapalabhati (Shining Skull) breathing clears the nasal passages, and creates a terrific "mental massage".
The cerebral-spinal fluid changes pressures in conjunction with the rhythm of normal respiration.
Because of the forceful nature of this breathing, the brain is enriched and enlivened.
Preparation
Kapalabhati should be practiced in a seated position.
Many people like to practice in a kneeling position, with their bodies lifted upward off of their heels.
If you are a beginner, practice in a seated position. As always, be aware of your back and maintain a long open spine.
Remember that breathing practices begin with an exhale!
The Steps
- Exhale completely, then take a relaxed breath in, allowing the belly to fully expand
- Forcefully contract the abdominal muscles and breathe out very quickly through the nose.
You are really pushing out the air here - the exhale is the key to this practice.
You will hear a slight "snorting" sound. You'll probably giggle and feel foolish! Keep going!
- The inhale is accomplished by just allowing your abdomen to expand and fill naturally.
That's one of the reasons why you practiced abdominal breathing first!
- Practice slowly at first and pick up the pace only when you feel ready
Notes
- member that they key is powerful exhalation
- You may feel light-headed at the beginning - slow down the breathing
- Don't worry about the pattern of the breathing.
You will probably find that it is quite uneven and weird at first.
Just keep going, and, as with all Yoga practice, be gentle and forgiving with yourself
- If you have bronchial conditions, you can practice this but consider the contraindications listed below.
Go slowly with less powerful exhalations and do fewer rounds. 10 is fine.
Benefits of Kapalabhati
- Clears the stale and residual air in the lungs
- Super-saturates the cells with both breath and prana
- Stimulates cellular metabolism
- Massages the abdominal organs and muscles
- Strengthens the heart and nervous system
Contraindications to Kapalabhati
- Pregnancy
- Menstruation
- Recent surgery in the thoracic region
- Inflammation in the thoracic region
- Emphysema
- Hypertension
|
