Contra-indications:- This type of breathwork should NOT be practiced by women who are pregnant or anyone who has recently undergone abdominal surgery.

Kapalabhati consists of alternating short, explosive exhales and slightly longer, passive inhales. Exhales are generated by powerful contractions of the lower belly (between the pubis and navel), which push air out of the lungs. Inhales are responses to the release of this contraction, which sucks air back into the lungs.

Focus on your lower belly. Many beginners aren't able to isolate and contract this area. If needed, cup one hand lightly in the other and press them gently against your lower belly.

Now quickly contract (or pump your fisted hands against) your lower belly, pushing a burst of air out of your lungs. Then quickly release the contraction (or your hands), so the belly "rebounds" to suck air into your lungs. Pace yourself slowly at first. Repeat eight to 10 times at about one exhale-inhale cycle every second or two.

As you become more adept at contracting/releasing your lower belly, you can increase your pace to about two exhale-inhale cycles every second. Imagine the exhale sweeping out or "brightening" the inner lining of your skull.

Do 25 to 30 cycles at first. Gradually increase the number of cycles you do each practice to 100 or more.

BEGINNERS TIPS

It is common to feel nausea or light-headedness during or after practicing this. Simply resume normal breathing if you feel light-headed during a round.

This is a powerful breathing practice, and can cause dizziness and a sense of a short-breath. It is important as a new student to slowly ease into practicing breathing exercises. With practice, side effects such as dizziness subside.