Kapalbhati – The Cleansing Breath Technique
Kapalbhati is a cleansing breath technique that uses forceful exhalation and active abdominal flapping in reducing carbon dioxide levels in the body. Regular practice of this technique instills benefits not only to the respiratory, digestive, circulatory system but to the nervous system as well.
The word Kapalbhati is a compound of two words kapal+ bhati. Kapal means forehead and bhati comes from the Sanskrit word meaning to shine. In the Hatha Yoga Pradipika, a yogic text enumerating the different practices of yogasana, pranayama and kriyas in Sanskrit verses, kapalbhati is classified as a kriya or a cleansing technique. Practice of kapalbhati clears the nasal passages in the region of the skull.
Kriyas are purificatory techniques that cleanse the inner tracts of the body. Kapalbhati kriya removes blockages that cleanse the lower respiratory tract, from the nostrils to the lungs. Kapalbhati kriya is an excellent measure against frequent attacks of cold and cough. The deep abdominal movement is useful in asthmatic attacks. Kapalbhati is a forceful exhalation technique. The initial inhalation is normal. However, the exhalation is forceful.
This cleansing technique reduces the carbon dioxide content in the body. Reduction in carbon dioxide, activates the brain cells. The practice of Kapalbhati utilizes active exhalations with flapping movements of the abdomen. The increased levels of oxygen due to reduction of carbon dioxide concentration, awakens nerve centers related to spiritual awakening.
In the practice of this cleansing technique, the practitioner is required to sit with a straight spine either in Padmasana, Vajrasana or in a well supported chair. Initially begin with an inhalation and then forcibly using the abdominal muscles, exhale. This is one strokeof kapalbhati. Repeat as many as 10-15 strokes quickly with forceful exhalation and gradually increase the count. The breath is not held at any point. Rapid and active exhalations with passive effortless inhalations achieved with abdominal flapping results in automatic suspension of breath.
This state results in the deep silencing of the mind where the mind is rendered thoughtless. Increased instances of a thoughtless state of mind results in improving the mental calm and reducing stress. This cleansing breath technique assists in removing of all foul gases including carbon dioxide from the body. The oxygen content not only increases but it is utilized efficiently by the body. The functioning of the abdominal organs improves by strengthening the intestines and improving digestion. Kapalbhati reduces acidity, flatulence and respiratory allergies.
The abdominal flapping reduces constipation and blood sugar is regulated in border line diabetic patients. Kapalbhati improves the functioning of the heart and lungs. It instills peace and tranquility in the mind where the energy centers of the body, viz. the chakras are purified. Regular practice of this technique results in an illuminous appearance on the countenance of the practitioner. The proof of the pudding is in tasting it. Similarly, the judgment on the cleansing powers of Kapalbhati can be unfolded only by practicing the technique regularly.
| Bby Anjali Gharpure |
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