Energising Breath Practices

In our fast-paced lives, it's easy to feel drained and depleted. But did you know that the key to revitalising your energy and invigorating your spirit lies right within you? Welcome to the world of energising breath practices, where each inhale and exhale holds the power to uplift and energise your entire being.

The Power of Breath

Breath is more than just a bodily function; it's a gateway to vitality and well-being. Through conscious breathing, we can tap into our body's innate energy reserves and awaken a sense of aliveness that transcends physical fatigue. Energising breath practices offer a simple yet profound way to harness the transformative power of the breath and infuse our days with renewed vigour. First up my clear favourite I use for energising myself is Breath of Joy. See my YOUTUBE channel @BreathGal for a demonstration.

Breath of Joy: A Radiant Burst of Energy

This dynamic exercise combines deep breathing with joyful movement to create a surge of vitality that reverberates through every cell of your body.

How to Practise:

  • Begin by standing with your feet hip-width apart, arms by your sides.

  • Inhale deeply through your nose as you swing your arms forward and up to shoulder level.

  • Continue inhaling as you stretch your arms out to the sides, palms facing up.

  • Finally, inhale fully as you reach your arms overhead, palms facing each other.

  • Exhale audibly through your mouth with a powerful "ha" sound as you swing your arms down and back behind you, bending your knees into a gentle squat.

  • Repeat this sequence up to nine times, allowing each breath to fill you with a sense of joy and vitality.

Benefits of Breath of Joy:

  • Instant Energy Boost: With each inhalation, you flood your body with oxygen, awakening your senses and enlightening your spirit.

  • Mood Enhancement: The rhythmic movement and joyful exhalation of Breath of Joy stimulate the release of endorphins, promoting feelings of happiness and well-being.

  • Stress Relief: By focusing on the present moment and the expansive nature of your breath, you naturally release tension and stress from both body and mind.

Contraindications:

  • Individuals with high blood pressure should avoid vigorous breath practices like Breath of Joy.

  • If you have any kind of head or eye injury, such as migraines or glaucoma, it's best to skip this practice.

  • If you start to feel light-headed or dizzy during the practice, stop immediately and return to normal breathing.

Kapalabhati: The Breath of Purification

Another powerful energising breath practice is Kapalabhati, also known as Skull-Shining Breath. This dynamic pranayama technique cleanses the body, invigorates the mind, and awakens your inner fire.

How to Practise:

  • Sit comfortably with a tall spine and relaxed shoulders.

  • Take a deep breath in through your nose to fill your lungs.

  • Exhale forcefully and rapidly through your nose by contracting your abdominal muscles.

  • Follow each exhalation with a passive inhalation.

  • Begin with 20-30 rounds, gradually increasing as you become more comfortable with the practice.

Benefits of Kapalabhati:

  • Increased Vitality: The rapid exhalations of Kapalabhati flood your body with fresh oxygen, revitalising your cells and boosting your energy levels.

  • Improved Digestion: The rhythmic pumping action of the abdomen massages the internal organs, promoting healthy digestion and elimination.

  • Mental Clarity: Kapalabhati clears the mind of stagnant energy and mental fog, leaving you feeling alert, focused, and present.

Contraindications:

  • Individuals with high blood pressure, heart conditions, or hernia should avoid Kapalabhati.

  • Pregnant women should also skip this practice, as it involves forceful abdominal contractions.

  • If you experience any discomfort or pain during the practice, stop immediately and consult with a qualified instructor or healthcare professional.

Embrace the Power of Breath

Incorporating energising breath practices like Breath of Joy and Kapalabhati into your daily routine can be a game-changer for your overall well-being. By harnessing the transformative power of the breath, you can awaken your inner vitality, uplift your mood, and infuse your life with a renewed sense of energy and joy. So take a deep breath, let go of fatigue, and embrace the radiant energy that awaits you with each inhale and exhale.

Mel Lacy-Fewtrell