Basic Breathing - Kapalabhati

Article #2 - Kapalabhati (skull shining)

Pranayama (yoga breathing) greatly revitalizes the body, moderates emotions and cultivates mental clarity. Yoga breathing in general should be performed sitting down with the spine, neck and head in a straight line for example in lotus pose or even just simply cross legged. This helps to facilitate the flow of prana and allows space for expansion of the lungs. 

Kapalabhati is considered the backbone of pranayamas. It is best to begin your basic set of asanas(poses) with Kapalabhati breathing.

Let's explore what Kapalabhati is all about shall we? 

Here are some interesting facts.

• Kapalabhati is one of the 6 kriyas (purification practices)
• Kapalabhati involves deliberate fast breathing using the abdominal muscles and not the chest. Each Kapalabhati breath is short, rapid and strong.
• The forced exhalation rids the lower lungs of stale air, making way for a fresh intake of oxygen-rich air
• Kapalabhati cleanses the entire respiratory system
• Direct translation of Kapalabhati is "skull shining" and indeed, Kapalabhati helps clear the mind and improve on overall concentration
• Kapalabhati consists of a series of exhalations and inhalations, followed by a retention of breath.
• To exhale : Contract the abdominal muscles sharply, raising the diaphragm forcing out the air out of the lungs. Exhalation should be brief, active and audible.
• To inhale : Relax the muscles, allowing the lungs to fill with air. Inhalation should be longer, passive and silent.
• The repetitive movement of the diaphragm tones the stomach, heart and liver
• Begin Kapalabhati with 3 rounds of 20 pumpings. Gradually, work your way up to rounds of 60.

Sound rather confusing?
Do check out this very informational video

She guides us step-by-step on how to perform Kapalabhati

source : The book of yoga - the complete step-by-step guide by Lucy Lidell