Kapalbhati Pranayama is a highly beneficial and effective breathing exercise that uses vigorous exhalations. Kapalbhati is a Sanskrit word where ‘Kapal’ refers to “skull” and ‘Bhati’ refers to “shine or illuminate.” As the name suggests, this exercise is believed to cleanse the system, clear your thoughts, and give your face a radiant glow.
The rhythmic exhalation of breath helps the body eliminate more toxins than other traditional forms of pranayama, and it also increases oxygen supply, cleaning the body thoroughly. The brain is well-oxygenated from doing Kapalbhati. Regular performance of such exercises not only contributes to internal cleanliness but also promotes health and harmony. It is said that Kapalbhati cools the brain, enhances concentration, and gives the face a glowing, peaceful look.
In today’s era, especially post-pandemic, maintaining a robust immune system and having a tranquil mind are essential. One powerful and simple way to restore balance is through the breath. The way we breathe directly affects our emotions, thoughts, and energy. When we are in a state of anxiety, our breath is shallow and fast; when we are at peace, our breath becomes deep and steady.
Using deep breathing techniques like Kapalbhati, we can stimulate the body’s relaxation response. It also help to dampens stress hormones, while at the same time stimulates the lymphatic system, which is so important for immunity. Moreover, it engages the body’s built-in repair mechanisms through the parasympathetic nervous system, creating a relaxation response.
If you are curious or want to know more about the Kapalbhati pranayama and yoga or want to join a yoga TTC, visit the Best Yoga School in Rishikesh.
Types of Kapalbhati Pranayama
There are three main types of Kapalbhati pranayama, each focusing on a different aspect of the purification and energy balance in the body. Here is an explanation of the types of Kapalbhati Pranayama.
- Vatakrama Kapalbhati (वातक्रम कपालभाति)
In this, the most common kapalbhati, people follow a forceful exhalation and passive inhalation through the nose.
- Vyutkrama Kapalbhati (व्यूत्क्रम कपालभाति)
In this kapalbhati, you learn about a cleansing technique for the nasal passages, which is similar to jala neti. You have to take lukewarm water from the nose and remove it from the mouth.
- Sheetkrama Kapalbhati (शीतक्रम कपालभाति)
In Kapalbhati, this is the reverse process of Vyutkrama: you have to take water from the mouth and remove it from the nose.
Benefits of the Kapalbhati Pranayama
There are some examples of the benefits of Kapalbhati pranayama.
- It helps with weight loss and tones the abdomen.
- Helps to reduce stress and anxiety
- It also enhances your focus and mental clarity
- It helps in glowing skin and better oxygen flow
- Helps to improve your digestion and boosts your metabolism
- Improves your blood circulation and the energy level
The Right Way of Doing Kapalbhati Pranayama
Kapalbhati Pranayama Step: It should be performed with the patience, awareness, and posture. Sit in a Padmasana or a Sukhasana, keeping your back straight and resting comfortably on your shoulders. Now keep your hands on your knees in Gyan Mudra and close your eyes. Inhale & exhale out through your nose, firmly, and pull the navel towards the spine. Firstly, you have to inhale unresisting, easily. After that, when you exhale, keep in mind that exhalation should be active and forceful. Start at 20-30 crunches per set and increase your reps as you build endurance. In the morning, always practice on an empty stomach. Kapalbhati purifies the lungs, increases energy, brings clarity, and balances of mind and bodycentred for your business.