Bellows Breath – Bhastrika
Section: Breathing techniques
Bhastrika
- Sit in a comfortable seated position with the spine neck and head in alignment.
- Have the eyes lightly closed.
- Practice abdominal breathing by drawing the air into the abdomen, using the diaphragm muscles.
- Accentuate the movement in the abdomen whilst keeping the chest still and relaxed.
- Once established, begin to breathe quite forcefully in and out through the nostrils.
- During inhalation, the abdomen expands, exhalation, the abdomen contracts.
- Slightly exaggerate this movement.
- Continue in this way for ten breaths then take a few natural breaths.
- This is one round, practice up to five rounds.
- Begin with up to 10 breaths at a slow pace. Once accustomed to this style of breathing, gradually increase the speed and number of breaths per round.
- Steady and even.
- The movement of the abdomen.
- Manipura chakra.
- High blood pressure or heart disease.
- Retinal problems, glaucoma or vertigo.
- Hernia or gastric ulcer.
- Stroke.
- Epilepsy.
- Stimulates the metabolic rate.
- Generates heat in the body.
- Massages and tones the abdominal organs.
- Balances and strengthens the nervous system.
- Increases concentration, focus and one-pointedness.
- Induces peace and tranquility.
- Never strain.
- Keep the breath rhythmical.
- Ensure the force of the inhalation and exhalation are equal.
