Kapalbhati Pranayama: How to Do It, Steps and Benefits

Kapalbhati Pranayama

Kapalbhati is a type of Pranayama that includes a rapid exhalation process. Kapalbhati is made up of two words ‘Kapal’ which means “skull” and ‘Bhati’ which means ‘Shine’. By the rapid exhalation process during Kapalbhati, one can cure many diseases. Moreover, Kapalbhati Pranayama is the most preferred way to detoxify the body and helps in internal cleansing. Also, the regular practice of Kapalbhati maintains the proper working of body organs. It is said that the regular practice of Kapalbhati cools the mind and increases radiance on your face. Have any queries? get answer from Yoga school in Rishikesh.

Types of Kapalbhati

There are three types of Kapalabhati Pranayama.

Vatakram Kapalbhati – In this, a person sitting in a meditative position, draws a breath from the second nasal hole by closing one nasal cavity with one finger. This is followed by an immediate exhalation by closing the nasal cavity on the other side.

Vyutkrama Kapalbhati – In this yoga, a person draws lukewarm water from the nose and removes it from the mouth.

SheetkramaKapalbhati – This is the reverse of Vyutkrama Kapalbhati. In this, water is taken out of the nose by taking it in the mouth.

How to do Kapalbhati Pranayama?

• Sit back, keeping your spine straight. Place your towards the sky, comfortably on your knees.
• Take a long deep breath inside.
• While exhale, pull your stomach inward. Draw your stomach in such a way that it touches the spine. Do as much as you can. You can feel the contraction of the abdominal muscles by placing a hand on your stomach. Draw the navel inward.
• As soon as you release the muscles of the stomach, the breath automatically reaches your lungs.
• To complete one sequence (round) of Kapalbhati Pranayama, exhale 20 breaths.
• After a round is over, relax and close your eyes. Feel the excitement manifested by pranayama in your body.
• Complete two more rounds (rounds) of Kapalabhati Pranayama.

Benefits of Kapalbhati Pranayama

• Kapalbhati Pranayama improves the flow of blood in the body and helps in the detoxifying process.
• It increases the metabolic process and helps in reducing weight.
• Kapalbhati Pranayama Improves digestion and transmits nutrients to the body.
• This Pranayama activates abdominal muscles, which are extremely beneficial for patients with diabetes.
• It fixes blood circulation and increases radiance on the face.
• Regular Practice of Kapalbhati makes the respiratory system healthy.
• It energizes the brain and tantric system.
• Kapalbhati Pranayama calms the mind and helps in releasing stress and anxiety.

Frequently Asked Questions 

1. What is Kapalbhati Pranayama and why is it practiced?

Kapalbhati Pranayama is a breathing technique in yoga that involves forceful exhalations and passive inhalations. People practice it to cleanse their respiratory system, improve digestion, boost metabolism, and improve mental clarity.

2. How does Kapalbhati Pranayama benefit the body and mind?

Kapalbhati helps detoxify the body, strengthen abdominal muscles, aid in weight management, and improve lung capacity. Mentally, it promotes focus, reduces stress, and increases energy levels.

3. How many times should I do Kapalbhati Pranayama daily?

Beginners can start with 20 to 30 strokes per round, completing 2 to 3 rounds each day. With experience and guidance from a qualified yoga teacher, this can gradually increase to 100 to 200 strokes.

4. Is Kapalbhati Pranayama good for weight loss?

Yes, Kapalbhati Pranayama supports weight loss by improving digestion, increasing metabolic rate, and reducing belly fat when practiced consistently along with a balanced lifestyle.

5. Who should not practice Kapalbhati Pranayama?

People with high blood pressure, heart disease, hernia, pregnancy, recent surgery, or severe back pain should avoid Kapalbhati or practice only under expert supervision.

6. What is the best time to practice Kapalbhati Pranayama?

The best time to practice Kapalbhati Pranayama is early morning on an empty stomach. It can also be done in the evening, at least 4 to 5 hours after meals.

7. Can beginners practice Kapalbhati Pranayama safely?

Yes, beginners can practice Kapalbhati safely by starting slowly, maintaining proper posture, and learning the correct technique from a certified yoga instructor or yoga school.

8. How is Kapalbhati Pranayama different from Bhastrika?

Kapalbhati focuses on forceful exhalation with passive inhalation, while Bhastrika involves equal force in both inhalation and exhalation. This makes Kapalbhati more cleansing and Bhastrika more energizing.

9. Does Kapalbhati Pranayama help with digestion and immunity?

Yes, Kapalbhati stimulates digestive organs, improves gut health, and supports immunity by enhancing oxygen flow and removing toxins from the body.

10. How long does it take to see results from Kapalbhati Pranayama?

With regular practice, many people notice improvements in digestion, energy, and mental clarity within 2 to 4 weeks, while long-term benefits develop with consistent practice.