भस्त्रिका

Bhastrikā

The bellows

Sources: Haṭha Yoga Pradīpikā 2.59-67 · Gheraṇḍa Saṃhitā 5.77-82

Classical description

The Haṭha Yoga Pradīpikā (2.59-67) offers a detailed description:

“As the blacksmith’s bellows constantly expands and contracts, so should the yogī breathe slowly and steadily through both nostrils.”

“Having breathed thus twenty times, one should practice kumbhaka. Then exhale as before. The wise one should practice this kumbhaka three times.”

“This destroys diseases caused by excess of vāta, pitta and kapha, increases the gastric fire, and awakens kuṇḍalinī quickly.”

Technique

  1. Sit in a stable meditative posture (Siddhāsana or Padmāsana)
  2. Breathe rapidly and vigorously through both nostrils
  3. The abdomen expands on inhalation and contracts on exhalation
  4. Like a bellows: rhythmic movement, equal emphasis on pūraka and recaka
  5. After 20 rapid breaths (or according to capacity)
  6. Inhale deeply
  7. Retain with jālandhara and mūla bandha
  8. Exhale slowly
  9. This is one cycle. Repeat 3 times

Effects according to the texts

The HYP is emphatic about the power of Bhastrikā:

  • Balances the three doṣas (vāta, pitta, kapha)
  • Ignites the digestive fire
  • Quickly breaks the “three knots” (granthis)
  • Rapidly awakens kuṇḍalinī
  • “It is pleasant and beneficial, destroys mucus at the entrance of suṣumṇā”

Notes

Bhastrikā means “bellows” (of a blacksmith). It is the most energizing and heating prāṇāyāma. Important precautions:

  • Do not practice on a full stomach
  • Avoid in hypertension, heart problems, pregnancy
  • May cause dizziness if overdone
  • Start gently and increase gradually
  • Best under guidance of an experienced teacher

It is considered one of the fastest methods to awaken kuṇḍalinī, but precisely for this reason it requires caution.