Bhastrika (Bellows breath) comprises forced rapid deep breathing that serves as a basis for a number of breathing exercises. The emphasis here is on expulsion or explosion of air. A series of such 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. However, the number could be increased to 10, or even more if necessary to get the desired effect. These range from hyper-ventilation, better blood circulation, clearing the nasal passages and improved thinking capacity to elimination of certain mental disturbances. While the breath strokes in the rapid succession may or may not be very deep, it is normal to complete or follow a round with deep inhalations and exhalations. Following this you should do a series of normal breaths before going on to the second round.

Some nasal hissing is only natural. However, try to avoid unpleasant sound and fluttering your nasal skin surfaces. Bhastrika may be performed standing; but it is better to do it sitting to facilitate maximum relaxation of the abdominal muscles as well as easy diaphragmatic breathing.

Precautions while performing the Bhastrika (Bellows breathing)

Please be careful while generating powerful expulsions as they could cause injuries to the lung tissues. Likewise, stretching a series for so long could cause giddiness. Caution – and not uncontrolled excess - should be your guiding principle and way of performing this breathing exercise.


Also exercise caution against going too far in your preliminary practices. If you tend to push the limit, lie down while doing this breathing exercise. There are chances you may lose consciousness and collapse. Too much practice could bring on giddiness, sleepiness and even loss of consciousness. If, by any chance, you fall unconsciousness, don’t worry, your breathing will set itself right and return to normal soon as you lie down and rest. Too much of Bhastrika (Bellows breathing) could result in lightheartedness, dizziness or a feeling of floating in the air.