Pranayama · प्राणायाम
Kapalbhati कपालभाति
Skull-Shining Breath
- Intermediate
- Breathing practice
- ⏱ 3 rounds of 20–30 strokes to start
Kapalbhati uses short, active exhalations through the nose, pushed by the abdomen, with passive inhalations. It is energising, so practise it in the morning on an empty stomach.
Meaning of the name: Kapala means skull and bhati means shining — one of the six cleansing practices (shatkarma) of Hatha Yoga.
How to do Kapalbhati · विधिकपालभाति की विधि
- Sit upright with the hands on the knees. Take a few normal breaths.
- Inhale normally. Then exhale sharply through the nose by pulling the navel in quickly.
- Let the inhale happen by itself as the belly relaxes.
- Continue at a steady pace — about one stroke per second to begin with — for 20–30 strokes.
- Finish with a slow exhale, then breathe normally for a minute before the next round.
Benefits · लाभलाभ
- Energising and warming
- Strengthens the abdominal muscles
- Clears the mind before meditation
Who should avoid it · सावधानियाँसावधानियाँ — किसे नहीं करना चाहिए
- Avoid in pregnancy, during menstruation, and with high blood pressure, heart disease, hernia, epilepsy, recent abdominal surgery or glaucoma
- Stop if you feel dizzy; never practise on a full stomach
Tips · सुझावसुझाव
- Only the belly moves — the shoulders and chest stay still.
- Learn the technique from a teacher before increasing speed or rounds.
This guide is for general learning. Practise on an empty stomach, move within comfort, and learn from a qualified teacher. If you are pregnant, injured or have a medical condition, check with your doctor first.
