Let's learn Breath of Fire or Kapalabhati.
This technique takes a bit of practice to become comfortable with,
So I wanted to dedicate a session to walk you through the steps and to practice.
At its foundation is a pumping breath which focuses on the exhale,
With the inhale being passive.
You focus on a short,
Strong exhale which pumps the belly,
And the inhale happens as a passive reflex.
It sounds like this.
All inhales and exhales are through the nose,
And it might help to start with your hand on your belly to feel the pumping effect and to hold your focus there.
So let's try for a few moments.
Exhale,
Exhale,
Exhale.
Release and take a deep inhale,
And a long,
Slow exhale.
We'll try another quick practice round here with the hand on the belly,
Focusing on exhale,
Exhale,
Exhale.
Release and take a deep inhale,
And a long,
Slow exhale.
Allow your breath to rest.
You may also practice with a different pace.
My pace might be too fast or slow for you.
I've heard it done many ways.
I'll demo here.
For faster,
Or a slower pace might sound like this.
Experiment now and find what feels best in your body.
Breathing may guide you to move to different parts of your body during breath of fire.
Because this is a clearing and energizing breath,
It can be a powerful combination.
I'll guide you now with a sample.
Begin first with your focus low in the belly,
Exhale,
Exhale,
Exhale,
Exhale.
And as you continue breathing,
Move your awareness to your crown,
While continuing the pumping action in your belly.
Only your attention or awareness moves to the crown.
Focus where the back of your neck meets your head.
Continue here for a few moments.
Now release.
Take a full,
Deep inhale,
And fully exhale here to clear.
Allow the body and the breath to settle.
Allow your breath to return to normal depth and pace,
And take notice of how your body has changed after just a bit of practice.
You may notice a stirring,
Bubbly sensation.
You may already feel a heightened energy.
Practice often to build your endurance and enjoy some of the many physical and energetic benefits of this breath.
Next time you are invited to breath of fire,
Join in with confidence.
You might also try my full practice with this breath called Cultivate Your Energy.
