I know this isn't the Surya Namaskar video I promised last week, but I hope you enjoy this anyway. FYI, I've recorded the sun salutation video, but haven't had the chance to do the VoiceOver yet. Hopefully that will be done this week! Apologies for the dreadful hair in this video, I'm growing it and it's all over the place at the mo!
Kapalabhati, or breath of fire, is a pranayama (breathing exercise) but also a shatkarma (cleansing/purification exercise). The Sanskrit word meanings shining or illuminated skull. It is said to clear the mind, the sinuses (which is why some mucus can sometimes accidentally come out of your nose while you are doing this exercise) and can also remove blockages in the heart and lungs.
It gets the energy flowing and ignites agna, your inner fire, so it's best done in the mornings. Be careful not to inhale in-between exhalations so as to avoid hyperventilation!
CONTRAINDICATIONS: please do not do this if you have high blood pressure, glaucoma, are pregnant or have your period. Please consult a doctor first if you have a hiatus hernia.
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