Prathamopadeśaḥ (Ṣaṭkarma) · Verse 34

कपालभातिर्वक्ष्ये तां भ्रमदोषविनाशिनीम् | कफदोषविशुद्ध्यर्थं मूर्छानाशनमुत्तमम् ||

kapālabhātirvakṣye tāṃ bhramadoṣavināśinīm | kaphadoṣaviśuddhyarthaṃ mūrcchānāśanamuttamam ||

Kapālabhāti — the “skull breath” or “skull-radiance” — is an active exhalation breathing technique. The name suggests it illuminates (bhāti) the head (kapāla).

Its benefits: it eliminates kapha (mucus), cures bhrama (vertigo/dizziness), and prevents mūrcchā (fainting/syncope). These disorders are related to excess mucus and heavy energy in the head.

The practice consists of vigorous and passive exhalations through rapid abdominal contractions, while inhalations occur naturally.