What is Bhastrika pranayama
While doing this exercise, the seeker exhales his breath like a bellows. This pranayama can be done slowly or fast as per the capacity. Due to this exercise being a complete supplement and laxative, maximum oxygen reaches the body.
This practice provides more energy to the body, soul and mind. The personality of the practitioner becomes highly sensitive and he becomes more receptive to higher, divine and subtle waves. from this practice Health benefits are achieved day by day and there are no diseases of any kind.
Most people do not use their stomach for breathing or do not know how to use it. Bhastrika is an excellent practice for completely training the body’s nervous system, through which the practitioner uses his abdominal muscles for normal breathing throughout the day.
Taking deep or long breaths means that you get maximum oxygen with less number of breaths. That is, you get more nutrients in the form of oxygen with less power. This results in good health.
Bhastrika pranayama steps
1.) Sit on flat ground.
2.) Do the activity after sitting quietly in Padmasana, Siddhasana or Sukhasana.
3.) Take a deep breath through both the nostrils and without any delay, exhale with full pressure.
4.) Then inhale rapidly and exhale quickly.
5.) Gradually increase the speed of breathing.
6.) Do this action twenty times.
7.) After that, do Antah Kumbhaka and practice Jalandhar and Moolbandh (as per convenience).
8.) This became a cycle. Thus, do this method three times.
Note- Both nostrils should be open and breathing should flow freely in them. Mucus accumulated in the nose can be removed by the practice of Neti. According to health, breathing speed should be slow, medium or fast. While inhaling, think well and while exhaling, think that the disorders of the body and mind are coming out. Seekers of Kundalini awakening do Bhastrika Pranayam while sitting in Vajrasana.
Rest between frequencies- Bhastrika is a dynamic practice, which requires a lot of physical energy. It has a more intense effect on new practitioners as they are not used to using their abdominal muscles. Therefore, one should not tire oneself too much. After one repetition, you can rest for a short time.
Sequence and time- The best time for Bhastrika Pranayama is in the morning after asanas and just before meditation. It brings awareness and a calm state of mind. Bhastrika should not be practiced after meals.
Awareness- Keep focused on breathing, stomach movement and mental calculations.
Benefits of Bhastrika pranayama
♦ This practice burns toxic elements and relieves vata, pitta and kapha doshas. The alveoli of the lungs have to be opened.
♦ Blood circulation is well organized. The practice of Uchchakoti is considered to cure skin diseases and heal body wounds, boils etc.
♦ Its practice increases life circulation in the entire body, which helps in attaining good health and eliminating diseases from subtle levels. This pranic makes the body powerful.
♦ Bhastrika reduces the amount of carbon dioxide in the lungs. This is an excellent exercise for the treatment of asthma and other lung related diseases.
♦ It removes throat swelling and accumulated phlegm. Makes the nervous system balanced and powerful, brings mental peace and concentration and makes it ready for meditation.
♦ The glow of the skin improves. The body and mind get so much rest that perception starts increasing.
♦ This exercise increases the body’s basal metabolic rate, which leads to the consumption of more calories.
♦ Regular rhythmic breathing increases the circulation of cerebrospinal fluid and makes the nerves of the brain more active by contracting and releasing them.
♦ Due to regular rhythm of movement in the great wall, the muscles of the heart and lungs get good exercise. Therefore, blood circulation becomes better and the lungs get strength.
♦ Apps increase. It is a good treatment for obesity.
♦ Neurological problems, gastric problems, asthma, This pranayama is beneficial in diseases like migraine, headache, throat infection, rheumatism, arthritis etc.
♦ Increases body heat, which provides relief in cold and cough. Beneficial in problems related to breathing apparatus.
♦ Throws out the toxins inside the body.
Precautions for Bhastrika pranayama
If you feel dizzy or sweat excessively or feel the urge to vomit, it means that the exercise is not being done correctly. Do not breathe forcefully, the speed of breathing should be controlled. Do not let the face deform and do not move the body too much. If any of these symptoms are reflected, advice should be sought from a yoga teacher.
Bhastrika is an ideal practice for blood purification and prevention of body defects, however, this purification should be done sequentially. The practice of Bhastrika requires a lot of physical strength. Beginners should rest for some time after each repetition.
Persons suffering from high blood pressure, heart disease, hernia, gastric ulcer, epilepsy or hallucinations should not practice Bhastrika. People suffering from lung related diseases like asthma, chronic bronchitis etc. and those who are recovering from tuberculosis should do this exercise only under skilled guidance.
An instruction is also given that the practice of Bhastrika should be reduced or not done during summer, because this pranayama increases the body temperature. Therefore, the seeker should practice keeping in mind the time and place.
If you practice Bhastrika more, the impurities in the blood will come out quickly and you will start complaining of boils, wounds and skin diseases etc. in the body. Therefore, proceed with your practice patiently. Let the impurities be removed gradually, so that there is not much possibility of suffering from any disease.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Bhastrika Pranayama?
Bhastrika Pranayama is a yogic breathing exercise that involves rapid and forceful inhalation and exhalation. It aims to increase energy, clear the respiratory system, and enhance mental health.
Who should avoid bhastrika?
People with high blood pressure, heart conditions, epilepsy, or hernia should avoid Bhastrika Pranayama. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting any new breathing exercises.
How many times bhastrika should be done in a day?
Bhastrika, recommended to start with 5-10 rounds and gradually increase based on your comfort.
Which chakra is activated by bhastrika pranayama?
This breathing technique also activates the solar plexus and Manipura Chakra.
Is bhastrika good for high BP?
Bhastrika, a breathing exercise in yoga, may not be suitable for everyone with high blood pressure. It involves forceful inhalation and exhalation, which can temporarily increase blood pressure. If you have high blood pressure or any health concerns, it's crucial to consult with a healthcare professional before starting new exercises or practices.
Should bhastrika be done fast or slow?
Bhastrika is typically done at a moderate to fast pace. If you're new to Bhastrika or have any health concerns, consider learning it under the guidance of a qualified yoga instructor to ensure proper technique and safety.
Does bhastrika increase heat in body?
Yes, Bhastrika pranayama is believed to increase heat in the body due to its rapid and forceful breathing, activating the metabolic rate.
Is bhastrika for chest or belly?
Bhastrika primarily involves the movement of the diaphragm and engages both the chest and the belly. During the forceful inhalations and exhalations, you'll likely feel expansion and contraction in both the chest and abdominal areas. It's a holistic breathing technique that involves the entire respiratory system.
Does bhastrika awaken kundalini?
According to certain yogic beliefs, Bhastrika pranayama is thought to stimulate Kundalini energy.
When should I practice bhastrika?
Bhastrika pranayama is often recommended to be practiced in the morning on an empty stomach or at least a few hours after a meal. It's beneficial to practice when you can dedicate your full attention to it, in a quiet and comfortable environment.
Can I do bhastrika anytime?
Bhastrika pranayama is generally recommended in the morning on an empty stomach.
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