Breath of Fire (Kapalabhati)
Materials Needed:
To Support Feeling:
Victimized
How to Do It
Sit comfortably with your spine straight. Take a deep inhale through your nose, then begin a series of quick, forceful exhales through your nose, pulling your navel in toward your spine with each exhale. Allow the inhales to happen naturally. Continue this for 1-2 minutes.
Why It Works
Breath of Fire is an energizing breathing technique that can help you release stagnant energy and feelings of victimization, replacing them with vitality and empowerment. It activates your core and can help you feel more grounded and strong.
Guided Practice
Before beginning, find a comfortable place to sit or lie down. Gently close your eyes or maintain a soft gaze. Start by taking a few deep breaths, allowing yourself to settle into the present moment. As you breathe in, feel your abdomen expand, and as you breathe out, notice your belly gently drawing in. Perhaps you sense a feeling of grounding with each breath, a connection between your body and the earth beneath you.
We are going to practice breath of fire, a powerful breathing technique that invigorates and energizes the body. When you're ready, take a deep inhale through your nose, filling your lungs fully. On the exhale, forcefully push the air out through your nose, drawing your belly in sharply with each exhalation. You might notice a quick, rhythmic contraction of your abdominal muscles, or a sensation of warmth building in your belly. Allow the inhale to come naturally, and focus on the forceful exhale. As you continue this practice, find a steady, rhythmic pace that feels comfortable yet stimulating. You may begin to feel a warming sensation spreading through your body, or a tingling in your face and extremities. Imagine each breath as a burst of energy, clearing out any stagnation or blockages in your body. Perhaps you visualize a bright flame in your belly, growing stronger and brighter with each exhale. Keep your awareness on the breath and the sensations it creates within you. Allow yourself to be fully immersed in this practice, feeling the rhythm of your breath and the movement of your body. Notice if any emotions or thoughts arise, and gently guide your focus back to the breath, to the powerful rhythm you've created. This breath is not just a physical exercise; it's an opportunity to release any tension or stagnant energy, to invigorate and awaken every cell in your body. After a few more cycles, take a deep inhale and hold the breath for a moment, feeling the energy you've cultivated. You might sense a vibration or a gentle buzzing throughout your body, or a heightened sense of clarity and focus. When you're ready, exhale slowly and completely, allowing your body to relax. Return to a natural breathing rhythm, noticing the sensations in your body, the warmth, the energy, the sense of revitalization. As we bring this practice to a close, take a few deep, calming breaths. Feel the energy you have created flowing freely throughout your body, bringing a sense of balance and renewal. Perhaps you feel a sense of lightness or clarity, or maybe a different sensation altogether. When you're ready, slowly open your eyes or lift your gaze, carrying with you the sense of vitality and energy that this practice has generated. Know that you can return to this powerful breathwork whenever you need to awaken and energize your body and mind.