Kapalbhati Pranayama | Steps and Benefits

How to do Kapalbhati Pranayama? What are the benefits?

Pranayama is the deep-breathing exercise that nourishes the brain. Regular practice of pranayama results in a clear mind, and a refreshing soul. There are different types of Pranayama exercises in Yoga, and Kapalbhati is one of them.

Kapalbhati is a type of Pranayama that allows the person to get rid of different ailments, especially mental and psychological ones, over a period of time. Kapalbhati Pranayama is an efficient and effective Yogic practice that helps a person to oxygenate the body. 

This is said to be very important for the development of meditation and mental strength. It is also recommended effective for Weight loss.

If we try to understand from its name , from Sanskrit Kapal means Skull, Bhati means Shining and Pranayama meaning breathing technique, it is a great practice, if done correctly and consistently, can deliver great results to the practitioner.

When you do Kapalbhati Pranayama, 60% of the toxic substances come out of your body with outgoing breath.

The proper explanation of this Pranayama in yoga is, “Shining forehead”. It is possible to get sharpness or shine on the forehead only when you practice this pranayama every day.

How to do Kapalbhati?

Sit in any meditative posture, close the eyes and relax the whole body.

Place your arms with both your hands on your knees, and face your palm up.

Inhale deeply, expand the chest expel the breath with the force full contraction with the abdominal muscles continue active exhalation and passive inhalation.

Begin to notice that the inhale becomes involuntary. Imagine your belly like a bellow as you strongly press air out on the exhale.

Then take a deep breath and exhale slowly and relax. This is a one round of Kapalbhati.

Each round should be followed by deep breathing now do two more rounds.

Do this in repetition for at least 15-20 minutes.

Kapalbhati should be practiced in early morning with empty stomach for good benefits.

Benefits of Kapalbhati

The Pranayama is highly useful to treat common cold , pneumonia  and asthma. It also improves  any respiratory disorders.

The lung’s capacity to hold oxygen increases and efficient oxygen and carbon dioxide exchange is facilitated.

It has a positive effect on the working of nervous system. As the brain cells receive blood rich in high oxygen content. It enhances the functioning of brain cells improving memory, concentration and efficiency.

Kapalbhati maintains the blood pressure by keeping the blood pumping rate of the heart under constant check. Proper blood pressure in turn lowers the chances of developing any heart problems, and it also lowers the chances of getting stroke and heart attacks.

It also provides a natural cure to obesity, diabetes, constipation, sinus and even hair loss. It is good way for curing any kind of mental and emotional problem also.

It unlocks any mental or emotional blockages, thereby giving a feeling of mental peace and emotional satisfaction.

Kapalbhati is a good way to release anger, stress and any mental discomfort. It brings a radiance and glow to your body. As the removal of carbon dioxide from the body is initiated, so it leads to blood purification also. This makes your skin healthy and beautiful.

Kapalbhati is a terrific pain reliever. Any kind of muscular and skeletal pain can be cured by regularly practicing Pranayama. It improves body posture and enhances bone’s flexibility in joints.