Yoga Pranayama: Bhastrika (Bellows)

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Bhastrika

Other Names

Bellows

Description

Bhastrika is primarily consists of forced rapid deep breathing which serves as a basis for many varieties of exercises, all of which may be described by the same name. Although air is forced both in and out, the emphasis is placed upon the expulsion or explosion of air.

How to do

Let the left hand rest on the left knee and place the right hand next to the nose.
Sit straight in a comfortable posture.
Inhale and exhale quickly in short and shallow breaths through both nostrils from four to ten times.
Again inhale and exhale through the nostrils contracting the middle and lower portions of the abdomen.

How to release

Then exhale completely, holding the breath for a while.
After this, inhale through the right nostril and retain the breath for a while.

Benefits

Bhastrika supplies a plentiful supply of oxygen to the lungs.
It produces heat in the body and increases appetite, destroys mucus, removes disorders of the respiratory system, improves efficiency of the nervous system, reduces fat in the abdominal region and enhances purity of consciousness.
Bhastrika is useful for digestive function, diabetes, sinus, etc.

Caution

You should exercise caution against the temptation of pushing too far in your initial practice of Bellows.
If you have the tendency to push the limit, lie down when doing this exercise since there is a risk for you to lose consciousness and fall on the floor.
Excess in practice may induce dizziness, drowsiness and loss of consciousness.

Next Article: Yoga Pranayama: Anuloma-Viloma (Alternate Nostril Breathing)

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