Kapalabhati
If you feel dizzy, hear ringing in your ears or start feeling anxious, stop and breathe the way you normally do. Safety and limits
Headphones make this easier 🎧.
What it works with: this is kapalabhati. The technique is a run of sharp active exhales through the nose with passive inhales. It wakes the body, works the abdominal muscles and clears the airways.
Sit upright, spine straight, shoulders relaxed. Rest your palms on the belly.
Where to focus: keep your attention on the belly — that is what works. Don't make the inhale: it happens by itself when the belly releases.
How to breathe: start with one calm deep inhale and exhale. Then a half-inhale — and sharp short exhales through the nose, drawing the belly in towards the spine each time. The belly releases and the air comes back in on its own, without effort.
The pace is fast but comfortable. One round is 15 to 30 exhales, then a break. Start with one round and build up to three.
If you feel dizzy, stop and return to normal breathing.
When to skip it
- pregnancy
- menstruation
- high blood pressure
- abdominal pain
- epilepsy
- recent abdominal surgery
- acute heart conditions
Preparing the practice…