Pranayama, the Yogic breathing technique, is composed of two Sanskrit words,- prana, the vital energy, and ayama, means to control. In Bhastrika Pranayama, bhastrika is Sanskrit word for bellow, an instrument used by blacksmiths to blow air onto a fire to keep the flame burning. Bhastrika Pranayama is done with equal length of inhalation and exhalation, facilitating equal lung movements.
Pranayama- One Of The Most Vital Element Of Yoga
Maharshi Patanjali defines yoga as Chitta Vritti Nirodha which means yoga techniques help to calm the mind. Maharshi compiled the entire concept of Yoga in Yoga Sutras which largely help in refining the mental body and improving concentration.
Yoga sutras talk about 8 practices known as:
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- Ashtanga Yoga (Yoga of the limbs),
- Niyamas (observances)
- Yamas (Abstentions)
- Pratyahāra (Withdrawal Of Senses)
- Dharāna (Concentration)
- Asanas (Posture)
- Samādhi (Oneness) And
- Praṇ̄ayāma (Control Of Breath). Read here An esoteric introduction to Pranayama and How to Pranayama here.
Balance In Five Elements
Prithvi (Earth), Jal (Water), Agni (Fire), Vayu (Air) and Akasha (Space) are the five building blocks of the universe. Our body is also constituted from the five elements or the pancha mahabhutas, which can be balanced and harmonised with different yoga techniques.
Five Sheath Of Illusion
If you consider yourself as a single body think again, because you aren’t!
Yogis, with their sharp intellect have clearly seen and wisely explained about the five body layers known as koshas.
These 5 sheaths are: Annamaya Kosha, Pranayama Kosha, Manomaya Kosha, Vijnanmaya Koshas and Anandmaya Kosha. These layers are highly correlated with each other.
The Pranayama Kosha is the pranic layer, highly associated with our breath. Regular practice of Pranayama helps to regulate this layer’s energy which further leads to energies in the other layers. You can watch the Pranayama Kosha here.
So What is Bhastrika Praṇ̄ayāma?
Bhastrika is known as the MOST POWERFUL PRANAYAMA, as Anulom Vilom is the KING OF THE PRANAYAMA!
The Pranayama has 8 fundamental forms; Bhastrika Pranayama is one of those. Classical text books of yoga such as Hatha Yoga Pradeepika and Gheranda Samhita find mention of bhastrika.
According to Swami Sivananda, the author of hatha yoga pradipika:
“Bhastrika Pranayama is a practice of rapid inhalation and exhalation with a hissing sound”
Bhastrika Pranayama, also known as bellows breath, is an ancient yogic breathing technique that is said to have many health benefits. It is a powerful practice that helps to clear the mind, increase energy levels, and improve overall health.
Bhastrika Pranayama involves taking deep, fast breaths in and out through the nose. The breath should be forceful, but not strained. The inhalation and exhalation should be equal in length and the breaths should be continuous and rhythmic. The practitioner should focus on the breath and not the body or mind.
The practice of Bhastrika Pranayama is said to have many physical and mental benefits. Physically, it can help to improve respiratory function and digestion, reduce stress, and strengthen the lungs and heart. Mentally, it can help to improve concentration and focus, reduce anxiety and depression, and increase clarity and insight.
Bhastrika Pranayama is also said to be beneficial for spiritual growth. It helps to open the energy channels in the body, allowing for the free flow of energy and the release of blockages. This can lead to a greater sense of peace and connection with the divine.
In order to practise Bhastrika Pranayama, it is important to start slowly and build up gradually. Begin by sitting in a comfortable position, preferably in lotus pose with the spine straight and the chin slightly tucked in.
The History and Origins of Bhastrika Pranayama
Bhastrika Pranayama is an ancient breathing technique that has been practised for centuries in India. It is an integral part of many yoga and meditation practices, and is believed to be beneficial for physical and mental health.
The word Bhastrika is derived from the Sanskrit language, and it means “bellows”. This is because the technique resembles the action of a bellows, with the inhalation and exhalation of air being done in a powerful and rapid fashion. Bhastrika Pranayama is also sometimes referred to as “bellows breath” or “breath of fire”.
The practice of Bhastrika Pranayama is believed to have originated in India over 5,000 years ago. It is one of the most ancient breathing techniques, and is mentioned in the ancient texts of the Vedas, Upanishads, and Yoga Sutras.
The practice of Bhastrika Pranayama is said to be beneficial for both physical and mental health. It is believed to help improve circulation, reduce stress and anxiety, and increase energy and focus. It is also said to help improve digestion, reduce inflammation, and even help with weight loss.
The practice of Bhastrika Pranayama involves taking rapid, deep breaths through the nose, while keeping the mouth closed. The inhalation and exhalation should be done with equal force, and the breath should be
The Impact of Bhastrika Pranayama on Mental Health and Well-Being
Bhastrika Pranayama is a powerful yogic breathing technique that has been used for centuries to promote mental and physical health. It is a powerful form of pranayama, or yogic breathing, that involves taking deep, rapid breaths that are held for a short period of time. The practice has been shown to have a positive impact on mental health and well-being.
The practice of Bhastrika Pranayama has been linked to a number of benefits for mental health. Studies have shown that the practice can reduce stress and anxiety, improve mood and mental clarity, and even reduce symptoms of depression. It has also been found to improve concentration and focus, and to reduce fatigue.
Bhastrika Pranayama is believed to help balance the nervous system, which can help to reduce stress and anxiety. It is thought to increase the flow of oxygen to the brain, which can help to improve mental clarity and focus. It is also believed to help to balance the hormones in the body, which can lead to improved mood and overall well-being.
The practice of Bhastrika Pranayama is also believed to improve physical health. It can help to reduce blood pressure, improve circulation, and strengthen the lungs. It can also help to improve digestion and reduce fatigue.
The practice of Bhastrika Pranayama is easy to learn and can be done anywhere.
How to Perform Bhastrika Pranayama
Bhastrika Pranayama is an ancient yogic breathing exercise that helps to purify and energise the body and mind. It is an important part of the Hatha yoga practice and is believed to help balance the energy in the body. Bhastrika Pranayama is also known as “bellows breath” due to the sound of the breath that is created during the practice.
To begin the Bellow Breathwork
- Sit in a comfortable position with your spine straight and your shoulders relaxed.
- Take a few deep breaths to settle into the practice.
- Once you are settled, begin to take short, powerful breaths through the nose.
- The inhale and exhale should be equal in length and should be done with enough force to create a sound.
- The sound should be like a bellows and should be audible to you.
- Continue to take these powerful breaths for a few minutes, focusing on the sound of the breath and the sensation of the air entering and leaving the body.
- As you practise, the breath should become smoother and more rhythmic.
- As you become more comfortable with the exercise, you can increase the length of the breath and the intensity of the sound.
- When you are ready to finish the practice, slowly begin to reduce the intensity of the breath until it is a gentle, quiet breath.
- Take a few deep breaths to finish the practice and to bring the body and mind back to a relaxed state.
More Tips for Practising Bhastrika Pranayama
Bhastrika pranayama is an ancient yogic breathing technique that has been used for centuries to help improve overall health and well-being. It is a powerful and effective way to increase levels, reduce stress, and improve respiratory and cardiovascular functioning.
The practice of Bhastrika pranayama involves taking rapid, forceful breaths through the nose. The inhalation and exhalation should be equal in length and intensity. It is important to keep the abdominal muscles engaged throughout the practice, as this helps to increase the efficiency of the breath.
When practicing Bhastrika pranayama, it is important to start slowly and gradually build up the intensity and speed of the breath. Begin by taking a few deep breaths in and out through the nose. Once you are comfortable with this, start to increase the speed and intensity of the breath. Make sure to keep the breath even and steady throughout the practice.
It is also important to maintain proper posture when practicing Bhastrika pranayama. The spine should be kept straight and the chin should be slightly tucked in. The hands can be placed on the knees or in gyan mudra position.
It is recommended to practise Bhastrika pranayama for 5-10 minutes at a time. It is best to practise this pranayama in the morning or evening on an empty stomach.
You can learn all the Pranayamas including Bhastrika Pranamaya in YOGARSUTRA HEALING STUDIO.
Wrapping Up – Bhastrika Pranayama
To summarise Bhastrika Pranayama, this is a breathing exercise that helps to increase oxygen intake and improve circulation. It involves taking deep breaths in and out through the nose, with each breath lasting for a few seconds. This exercise can help to reduce stress, improve concentration, and increase energy levels.
A regular practice of bhastrika Pranayama helps in improving the function of the cardiorespiratory system. Fast paced breathing helps in harmonious heartbeats.
Rashmi is a certified Yoga Teacher, Reiki Healer, Advanced Chakra Healer, Spiritual and PLRT Therapist, Yin Yoga And Pilates Instructor from India. For the result oriented Health And Nutrition coaching through Yoga and Reiki Healing in combination with other healing modalities, please CLICK HERE to download the App Yogarsutra Healing Studio.
