How to do Bhastrika Pranayama & what are it's health benefits?

 

Bhastrika Pranayama Method

Sitting with the waist, neck straight as per the convenience in a meditative-asana, filling the breath from both the nostrils up to the diaphragm and slowly releasing it with ease is called 'Bhastrika-Pranayama'.  Initially, inhalation should be done for two and a half seconds and the breath should be exhaled for two and a half seconds with a rhythm, practice it for two to five minutes with an average of 12 blows in a minute.

 

Bhastrika Pranayama for cold and sinus

Those people whose both nostrils are not opened properly due to excess of phlegm/mucus or sinus etc., should first close the right nostril and inhale and exhale from the left nostril only.  Then close the left nostril and inhale and exhale from the right nostril at a slow, medium or fast pace whichever feels comfortable. Then in the end Bhastrika-Pranayama should be done from both the nostrils.  It is also called diaphragmatic deep breathing.

Bhastrika Pranayama Cautions:

1. Those who have high blood pressure, asthma or heart disease, they should not do Bhastrika at a rapid pace.

2. While doing this pranayama, when you inhale, then the abdomen should not be inflated. Fill the breath till the diaphragm, it will not swell the abdomen, only the chest will expand till the ribs.

3. This brings heat to the body.  Therefore, in the summer season, it should be done at a slow pace.

Bhastrika Pranayama Benefits:

1. The reaction time (reaction times taken in response to any stimulus) decreases with the practice of Bhastrika-Pranayama. 

2. All phlegm/mucus diseases like cold, cough, allergies, respiratory disease, asthma, chronic sneezing and sinus can be treated and cured. Lungs become strong and the heart and brain get healthy by getting pure Pranavayu(oxygen).

3. The blood is purified. Tridoshas get even. It is very helpful in vitality and Kundalini awakening.