Fitness - Day 4 ~Kapalbhati - A Powerful Mind Detox Technique

Kapalbhati: To Bring The 'Spark' Into Your Life

Kapalbhati is a power breathing technique that is proven to help overcome blues, negativity, stress and depression - in a minute! Almost all mind-body schools have used this single mind detoxification technique in some form or another - with dramatic results. More importantly, it is the only technique used exclusively for mind purification among all the Yoga cleansing routines. It is called cleansing breath or "kapalbhati" in Sanskrit. So we all know that laughter is the best medicine. But do you really know why? No point in guessing - because, it works exactly the same way as this cleansing breath technique. Kapalbhati has a remarkable effect as a de-stressing tool and clearing the mind of negative emotions. In fact, the Sanskrit words "Kapal" means the skull and "bhati" means polishing or shining. "Kapalbhati", as the name suggests, is a method to make the head "sparkling clean" and devoid of toxins.

Who Should Not Do It?
If you're suffering from cardiac problems, nasal obstruction, cold any severe respiratory infection, it is advisable to consult your physician. It should also be avoided if you suffer from high blood pressure, diabetes or abdominal ulcers.

The Method
Although, the cleansing breath is remarkably simple, it is important that it is done properly. Sit in a comfortable position with spine erect. You can sit either cross-legged or in any position that you feel comfortable. Breathe normally for about a minute. Once composed, you can begin. First, exercise the diaphragm by exhaling suddenly and quickly through both nostrils, producing a "puffing" sound. Don't focus on inhalation. It will be automatic and passive. The air is exhaled completely from the lungs with a sudden, vigorous stroke while simultaneously drawing inwards the abdominal muscles. The breath should be expelled fully. Inhaling is automatic - the abdominal muscles will relax automatically. This exercise should be done in three rounds, each consisting of 11 strokes (for the beginner - up to 30 for a more advanced practice).