Rechaka

Exhalation, emptying. One of the three phases of pranayama along with puraka (inhalation) and kumbhaka (retention).

Rechaka is not simply releasing air, but a conscious act of letting go. In many techniques, exhalation is lengthened to activate the parasympathetic nervous system and calm the mind. The classic proportion suggests rechaka be twice as long as puraka.

During rechaka, natural cleansing occurs: not only CO2 is expelled, but also accumulated subtle tensions. This is why many practices emphasize exhalation as the most important phase for deep relaxation.