What is Bhastrika Pranayama?

There exist a number of avenues we can explore to energise our bodies. Among them, physical sports, exercise, and yoga reign supreme. Yoga energises not just our body, but also our mind and soul. In this article, we will tell you how the yogic practice of bhastrika pranayama benefits the body. Let’s start with understanding what bhastrika pranayama is.

 

Bhastrika pranayama is a yoga breathing technique that helps pump more oxygen into the body. As a practitioner, you are required to rapidly inhale and exhale oxygen which gives your body a boost of energy. Owing to the fact that this is a fast-paced breathing technique, it is called the ‘Bellows Breath’ in English. It’s now time to learn how to do bhastrika pranayama.

How to Practise Bhastrika Pranayama?

Follow these bhastrika pranayama steps to practise this breathing technique:

 

Step 1. Begin by sitting down in a cross-legged position or in the thunderbolt position (vajrasana). Vajrasana happens to be the ideal position as the spine is erect and the diaphragm moves in a better manner.

 

Step 2. Fold your hands into fists and fold your arms such that they are placed close to your shoulders.

 

Step 3. Take a deep breath, raise your hands up and open your fists.

 

Step 4. Exhale with force and lower your arms such that they are` close to your shoulders and tighten your fists.

 

Step 5. Repeat this process for an additional twenty breaths.

 

Step 6. Place your palms on your thighs and relax.

 

Step 7. Breathe in and breathe out at your normal pace.

 

Step 8. Resume practising bhastrika pranayama for an additional two rounds.

Benefits of Bhastrika Pranayama

Pranayama & yoga benefit your body in many different ways. Some of the benefits of bhastrika pranayama have been explained in the points below:

• Provides Energy

  The practice of bhastrika pranayama rejuvenates the body and mind and helps energise them.

• Removes Toxins

  As this yoga breathing technique involves the use of our lungs, it helps remove toxins, impurities and excess phlegm found within them.

• Provides Relief from Respiratory Issues

  Those suffering from respiratory issues such as bronchitis feel better when they practise bhastrika pranayama.

• Increases Awareness

  This form of controlled breathing improves your level of awareness and the perceptive power of your senses.

• Strengthens your Abdomen

  Bhastrika pranayama is beneficial in strengthening and toning the abdominal region.

Beginner’s Tip for Bhastrika Pranayama

If you are a beginner, you must not attempt to perform any form of bhastrika pranayama other than the slow-paced version. It is advised to seek out a seasoned practitioner who can guide you on how to practise it.

How Often Should I do Bhastrika Pranayama?

No more than three rounds or sessions of bhastrika pranayama should be practised in a single day. You must take breaks between each round. This form of controlled breathing must only be practised on an empty stomach.

Bhastrika Pranayama- Precautions and Contraindications

While this form of controlled breathing might appeal to you, it is important to first take into account the bhastrika pranayama precautions and contraindications listed below before attempting to practise it.

 

• Pregnant ladies should avoid practising bhastrika pranayama.

• You must approach bhastrika pranayama with caution and should only attempt to perform the slow-paced version if you suffer from high blood pressure.

• This form of controlled breathing must not be performed in the summer heat as it can increase the body’s temperature. For the same reason, if you are running a temperature, you should abstain from practising bhastrika pranayama.

• If you find yourself feeling nauseous, immediately stop practising this breathing technique.

• Wait for three or four hours after finishing a meal before attempting to practise bhastrika pranayama.

• Bhastrika pranayama should not be practised if you are menstruating as it can cause cramps.

Conclusion

Bhastrika pranayama helps energise the body and removes toxins and excess phlegm from the lungs. Owing to the fact that it has several health benefits, bhastrika pranayama is practised by several people. Apart from incorporating healthy habits into your daily routine, you can also consider investing in a good health insurance policy as you never know when you will need it. Good health insurance plans are designed to provide you with the necessary coverage in the event of any unfortunate injury or illness. So, if you still haven’t bought health insurance for yourself and your family, take a look at the health insurance plans available at Finserv MARKETS, which give you access to some of the best healthcare facilities at a wide range of network hospitals across India.