Guided Meditation: Kapal Bhati Pranayama

10/19/2009 | 12:00 AM

This powerful breathing technique helps clear your nasal passages and flush toxins from your lungs, while strengthening your abdominal muscles. It also gives you an opportunity to relax and de-stress your mind and body. This winter, consider making Kapal Bhati Pranayama a part of your daily routine.

Directions:

Find a quiet, meditation-friendly corner where you won’t be disturbed. Sit in the Padmasana posture and place your hands on your knees.
Inhale deeply. Exhale. Relax.
Take a long, slow inhale, and this time exhale forcefully, as if you are throwing the air out from your lungs. You should be able to feel your abdominal muscles expanding and contracting.
Repeat several times, focusing on the strength and power of your exhale. Do not put the same effort into the inhale.
Start with 15 breaths (you can add more later).
End the Pranayama with a few deep, relaxed inhales and exhales.

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