Sitting in any meditative āsana, keeping the spine and neck erect, inhaling till the lungs are completely filled and then exhaling slowly is called as Bhastrika Pranayama. Initially inhale in 2.5 second and exhale in the same time in a rhythmic flow, so that by doing it nonstop for 12 times in 1 minute one can do it 60 times is 5 minutes (12×5-60).
For persons whose both nostrils are closed due to cough or any sinus related problem, they should first close their right nostril and do recaka and puraka through left nostril. Then close the left nostril and practice the same through right nostril either slowly, moderately or rapidly depending on one’s own capability; Bhastrika Pranayama should be performed by doing recaka and puraka through both the nostrils. Its other name is Diaphragmatic Breathing.
Precaution
Patients suffering from high blood pressure, cardiac problems and asthma should not practice Bhastrika Pranayama vigorously. While inhaling do not fill air in abdomen, by filling air till the diaphragm abdomen will not expand and only lungs will expand inside the ribs. It increases body temperature, hence it should be practiced slowly in the summers.
Bhastrika Pranayama Benefits
- Cough related disorders such as cold, catarrh, allergy, tuberculosis, asthma, chronic sneezing problem, sinusitis etc. are cured. The Lung’s capacity is increased and more oxygen is supplied to the vital organs like heart and brain. Hence they function better.
- It helps to purify the blood and balance tridoșa. It is very helpful for prana-elevation and awakening of serpent power (Kundalini Jägarana).
- Practice of Bhastrika Pranayama reduces reaction time (it is the time taken for reflex response to a stimulus).
