contraction of the abdominal muscles. Fig. . : Kapalbhati Do You Know?
An expert can perform strokes of Kapalbhati . •• The breathing must be of the ‘bellows’ type and perform – strokes in one round. Start from strokes. •• At the end of practice, deep exhale and relax.
•• Stroke should be in rhythmic manner. •• Active exhalation and passive inhalation. •• Don’t strain the facial muscles during the practice. •• Avoid performing the practice in the case of high blood pressure, heart diseases and gastric ulcers.
•• It purifies the frontal air sinuses and stimulates the brain. •• Massages abdominal organs; and improves digestion. •• It increases the capacity of lungs. •• It is useful in treating cold, rhinitis (inflammation of the mucus membrane of the nose), sinusitis and bronchial infections.
Agnisara Agnisāra is also known as Vahnisara . Vahni and Agni are synonymous words meaning fire and ‘ Sāra ’ means essence. According to Hatha yogic tradition, the essence of fire is located in the navel region. During this kriya , there is a movement in navel region.
It can be performed in sitting or standing position. •• Stand erect with the feet apart at shoulder level. •• Bend the knee and body at an angle of o . Place the hands on thighs above the knees.
•• Exhale completely then contract and expand the abdominal muscles rapidly for as long as comfortable while retaining the breath outside. •• Then slowly breathe in. Repeat the practice – times. •• Stomach should be empty while performing Agnisara .
•• The movement should be in rhythmic manner. •• Don’t hold the breath beyond capacity. •• Avoid performing this practice in case of high blood pressure. •• It gives gentle massages to abdominal organs, and improves digestion.
•• It reduces fat and strengthens the abdominal muscles. Do You Know? An expert practitioner can perform more than movements in one time. Fig.
. : Agnisara •• It stimulates the relevant nerves and harmonises all the abdominal conditions of the bowel, liver, kidney, spleen, pancreas and digestion, allowing