Bhastrika Pranayama (Bellows Breath)
Etymology
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Bhastrika (भस्त्रिका) – Derived from Sanskrit meaning "bellows", like the bellows used to stoke a fire.
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The name reflects the forceful inhalation and exhalation, mimicking the bellows' pumping motion, increasing inner fire and energy.
Scriptural and Classical References
🔹 Hatha Yoga Pradipika – Chapter II, Verses 61–67:
“Bhastrika kumbhakam kuryad dvi-trimshad avartanam |
Tatah khechari mudram cha kuryad vahnisamudbhavam ||”
(II.67)
— Describes Bhastrika as a method to stimulate agni (inner fire), cleanse nadis (energy channels), and awaken pranic forces.
🔹 Gheranda Samhita – Chapter V, Verse 84:
“Bhastrika kapalanaam shodhanaa sarvarogapaha |”
— Bhastrika is said to cleanse the frontal brain (kapala) and eliminate all diseases.
Technique: How to Practice Bhastrika
✅ Steps:
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Sit in a comfortable posture (Padmasana, Siddhasana, or Vajrasana).
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Keep the spine erect, hands on knees (Jnana Mudra or Chin Mudra).
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Begin with deep, forceful inhalations and exhalations through the nose.
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The breath should be rhythmic and active, from the diaphragm.
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Chest expands on inhalation, contracts on exhalation.
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Complete 10–20 rounds, then pause for a few normal breaths.
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Follow with internal retention (Antar kumbhaka) after deep inhalation.
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Exhale slowly and repeat for 3 rounds.
Precautions & Contraindications
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❌ Avoid if you have:
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High blood pressure
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Heart disease
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Epilepsy or seizures
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Severe anxiety
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Pregnancy
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Practice under the guidance of a trained yoga teacher.
Physiological and Mental Benefits
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🔥 Increases internal heat and stimulates metabolism.
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🩺 Cleanses respiratory system and improves oxygen supply.
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🧘♂️ Invigorates the nervous system and clears mental fog.
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💓 Boosts energy levels and removes lethargy.
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🧬 Balances the doshas in Ayurvedic terms, especially Kapha.
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🧠 Enhances focus, alertness, and mental clarity.
Energetic & Subtle Benefits
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Stimulates the Manipura Chakra (solar plexus), the seat of personal power.
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Awakens Kundalini Shakti when combined with bandhas and mudras.
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Clears Nadis – especially Ida, Pingala, and Sushumna.
Practice Guidelines
Aspect | Guideline |
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Time of practice | Early morning, on empty stomach |
Duration | 3 rounds of 10–20 breaths (gradually more) |
Ratio | Equal inhale & exhale – fast but controlled |
Follow-up practice | Anulom-Vilom, Kapalabhati, or meditation |
Complementary Yogic Practices
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Combine with Bandhas:
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Jalandhara Bandha (chin lock)
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Mula Bandha (root lock)
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Uddiyana Bandha (abdominal lock)
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Integrates well in advanced pranayama sequences and Kundalini Yoga.
References for Further Study
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Swami Svatmarama – Hatha Yoga Pradipika
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Swami Niranjanananda Saraswati – Prana and Pranayama, Bihar School of Yoga
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Swami Satyananda Saraswati – Asana Pranayama Mudra Bandha (APMB)
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Dr. H. R. Nagendra – Yoga for Health and Healing
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B.K.S. Iyengar – Light on Pranayama
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Gheranda Samhita – Traditional Hatha Yoga text
Summary
Bhastrika Pranayama is a dynamic and powerful breathing technique that energizes the body, awakens consciousness, and cleanses both physical and pranic systems. Known for removing toxins, balancing emotions, and boosting mental clarity, it stands as a potent pillar of traditional yogic practice — especially when performed with mindfulness and inner awareness.