Kapalabhati Tutorial: How to Practice the Shining Skull Breath (Sivananda Yoga)

Om Om 🙏🏼
About This Tutorial
Welcome to this guided practice of Kapalabhati, also known as the Shining Skull Breath. In the traditional Sivananda Yoga sequence, we begin our practice with this powerful Pranayama to purify the respiratory system and energise the body for the Asanas to follow.

Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned practitioner, this video will walk you through the correct technique, rhythm, and vital breath retentions (Kumbhaka) that make this practice so transformative.

The Benefits of Kapalabhati
Regular practice of this "Shining Skull" breath offers profound physical and energetic benefits, including:
Respiratory Strength: Actively strengthens the lungs and significantly increases lung capacity.
Deep Cleansing: Acts as a natural "flush" for the lungs, clearing out stale air and mucus.
Nervous System Support: Calms and nourishes the nervous system, helping to balance the Gunas.
Cellular Detoxification: During the retention phase, carbon dioxide is released more efficiently from cells and returned to the blood for elimination.
Solar Plexus Stimulation: The rhythmic pumping movement stimulates the Solar Plexus (Manipura Chakra), stoking your internal fire and improving digestion.

Practice With Me
Find a comfortable seated position with your spine erect. Follow along as we move through three rounds of pumping and retention.
Safety Note: Please practice on an empty stomach. If you are pregnant, have high blood pressure, or suffer from heart issues, consult with a teacher or medical professional before attempting the breath retention.

Share Your Experience!
I would love to hear how this practice felt for you. Did you notice a sense of clarity or "shining" in the mind after the rounds?
Have questions about the technique?
Need help with the rhythm or retention?
Want to share your progress?
Please leave your feedback and questions in the comments below. I read every single one and am here to support your yoga journey.

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Om Shanti, Shanti, Shanti.

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