Bhastrika in Sanskrit means “bellows”. Bhastrika Pranayama is primarily composed of forced, rapid, and deep breathing which is used as a basis for a wide variety of exercises – all of which are described using the same name. Air is forced both in and out of the body, but despite this, the emphasis of the exercises is placed on the expulsion of air.

A series of expulsions or explosions of air in rapid succession without a pause is called “a round”. People who are new to Bhastrika should limit a single round to about five expulsions of air. This number may be increased to ten, depending on the need or the desired effect.

Desired effects for Bhastrika include an increase in ventilation, better circulation of blood, clearing the nasal passages, and an increase in brain capacity thereby eliminating any mental disturbance. Although people can breathe through their mouths and noses, regular breathing can become limited to either one or both of the nostrils. The breath stroke involved in Bhastrika may not be very deep, but should be followed by a round of deep inhalation and exhalation of air. A series of normal breaths should be done before going into a second round of Bhastrika. A deep round of breathing should also be done before each round. Producing a hissing sound through the nose is to be expected; however, you should try to avoid making any unpleasant sounds.

Bhastrika exercises may be performed while standing, however, it is advisable to undertake these exercises while in a seated position. This way, you allow for a maximum level of relaxation in the abdominal muscles. Some benefits that may be derived from performing Bhastrika or bellows is the relief of the inflammation of the throat, lessens any diseases of the nose and chest, reduces asthma, increases the appetite, breaks and dissolves tumors, enables the practitioner to know Kundalini, relieves any diseases that may be related to bile, wind and phlegm, and it warms the body. Bhastrika exercises are also useful in muscular dystrophy and problems relating to oxygen deficiency. Bhastrika Pranayama encourages the proper balance of the three Doshas – Vata, Pitta, and Kapha; it also helps rid the body of any toxins and foreign objects that may cause it harm.

People who practice Bhastrika pranayama are generally very healthy. However, as a precaution, keep in mind that generating very powerful expulsions of air can cause injuries to your lung tissues; extending expulsions to long periods can also lead to dizziness. This pranayama is not recommended to be practiced by pregnant women or people who have high blood pressure. Beginners are advised to practice this pranayama slowly, giving their bodies time to adjust and adapt to the practice. Bhastrika is basically controlled hyperventilation, so an increase in the levels of oxygen in your blood may leave you feeling lightheaded. If this happens, take a break from the exercise and breathe in normally. If you have a tendency to push yourself while still beginning to practice bellows, lie down when doing this exercise. This way, you keep yourself safe as there is a risk of losing consciousness and falling to the floor as a result of dizziness.