Bhastrika means bellows. A bellows is a device for forcing air in a concentrated way usually to help a fire burn. In Bhastrika pranayama the air is exhaled and inhaled fast and forcefully. Energy is drawn from the Manipur or Navel Chakra during exhalation. This creates a sound similar to the bellows when they are used. A series of forceful expulsions is done, one following the other in quick succession. There is neither a full or empty pause. Beginners had better limit a round to about 5 expulsions.
This Pranayam should not be practiced by people who are pregnant or have high blood pressure.
Benefits of Bhastrika Pranayam
Relieves inflammation of the throat
Increases gastric fire
Removes diseases of the nose and chest such as cold, cough, asthma and other respiratory diseases
It gives good appetite
It removes all diseases which arise of wind, bile and phlegm
It gives warmth to the body
Very much useful in Muscular Dystrophy and Oxygen deficiency disorders.
This Pranayam brings a proper balance of the three Doshas i.e. Vata, Pitta and Kapha
Procedure
Sit in a comfortable crossed leg posture, sukhasana and keep your back straight.
Feel relaxed, just focus on the breathing pattern
Inhale forcefully through your both nostrils till your lungs are filled with air. After the full breath-in, exhale with a great force that is, you should hear a hissing sound
The force with which you exhale and inhale are very important in the practise of Bhastrika pranayama, so make sure you apply the maximum force and speed based on your ability
In Bhastrika pranayama, while you inhale your chest area should blow up instead of your abdominal area
One cycle of Bhastrika pranayama include a forceful inhaling and a forceful exhaling. Repeat the cycle for five to ten times.