Kapalbhati is a Pranayama, which is held in high regard in the yogic realm. And why not? It has so many benefits for the human body. Amazingly, it is also a cleansing procedure in yoga. As the name suggests, it is a skull shining exercise, which has a number of benefits. So, let us start from the basics of this practice.

Kapalbhati Pranayama involves inhaling passively, while exhaling actively. Also included in Shatkarma Kriya, you are able to let out all sorts of impurities from the body, through this procedure. Around 80% of toxins from the body can be released by the exhaled breath, and that is the premise on which Kapalbhati is based. So, if you practice Kapalbhati on a regular basis, you will be detoxifying yourself.

How To Do Kapalbhati Pranayama?

If you are a beginner, then you can start slow. Practice Kapalbhati for a few seconds, and then stop. Gradually, you increase the duration of your practice.

• You must ensure to sit in a comfortable position, before attempting to do this Pranayama. Always sit with your spine straight.
• You can assume the Jnana mudra, with your hands and place them on each knee.
• Inhale deeply to begin with and fill up your stomach.
• Thereafter, you must exert some pressure, and release the breath. Contraction of the abdomen has to happen very quickly.
• Again, allow the breath to flow towards your lungs in a passive inhalation mode. And again force the air out actively.

You can repeat this as you become well acquainted with the process. Kapalbhati Pranayama has many benefits. Let us find out what they are.

Benefits Of Practicing Kapalbhati Pranayama

• If you practice Kapalbhati Pranayama on a daily basis, you will be able to manage obesity and lose weight.
• Its regular practice also solves gastric issues.
• If you suffer from constipation, then practicing Kapalbhati will likely solve your issue.
• Those suffering from Fistula can also cure it, by practicing this Pranayama along with intake of medicines.
• If you have kidney stones, then also you will get relief from it if you practice this Pranayama on a daily basis.
• If you always feel tired, then also this can help you immensely.
• This practice also yields miraculous results, if you have diabetes and cholesterol. 
• Kapalbhati Pranayama also cures the energy channels of the body. This in turn balances the chakras.
• The regular practice of Kapalbhati Pranayama also strengthens the lungs.

Precautions

• The exhalation in Kapalbhati Pranayama is a very active process, and forceful as well. So, you just need to remember to throw out your breath.
• You need not worry about the inhalation bit. When you relax your abdominal muscles, inhalation occurs naturally.
• You just need to be aware of every breath that enters your body and leaves your body.
• You should not practice Kapalbhati, after a heavy meal.

There are certain conditions, when you need to avoid doing Kapalbhati Pranayama. They are:

• If you have artificial heart or pacemaker inside your body, or if there are stents inserted, then you must avoid doing this Pranayama.
• If you recently had abdominal surgery or stomach surgery, then also you must avoid this Pranayama.
• You must not do this in menstruation or when you are pregnant.
• If you are suffering from cardiac issues, then you must practice this Pranayama under an expert’s guidance.

Samadhi Yoga Ashram is one of the best places, where you can start your journey. Learn to master such practices keeping all the tips in mind. Then only, it will yield the right benefits.

Conclusion

Kapalbhati Pranayama is a powerful breathing technique, which helps in multiple ways. However, you need to learn it properly, from a good school to be able to do it. Practicing it in the wrong manner can negate the effects. So, join a registered school for the program.

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