In this 9th session of The Yoga, Meditation, and Inspiration Podcast for Beginners, we continue our theme of breathwork, or pranayama, and how we can integrate it with meditation. Specifically, we practice kapalabhati, also known as the breath of fire, or skull shining breath.
This relatively simple breathing practice can be invigorating, energizing, and stress-relieving. It’s great to practice alone, or can be combined with a yoga or meditation practice, as I have included in this session.
As a reminder, if you’d like to be able to listen to this session on your phone or iPod, head over to iTunes to download the episode. To do this, click this link, and then click the blue button: View in iTunes. Once you’re there, you can subscribe to automatically download and sync sessions with your phone/iPod or you can download individual sessions–all for free!
Session Summary:
We often think of meditation and breathwork as practices meant to calm, soothe, and relax the mind and body; however, just as there are both relaxing and energizing aspects of the physical practice of yoga, the same goes for meditation and breathwork.
Sometimes what we really need is a boost of energy. When we go about it in a mindful way, such as in this breathing practice, it’s possible to create a physically and emotionally invigorating effect. In this state, we are clear, grounded, and ready to move forward with our day with both energy and intention.
It is also important to note that this practice is not generally recommended for those with high blood pressure, who are currently pregnant, or who are recovering from any sort of abdominal surgery.
In this session, we cover:
- Kapalabhati, breath of fire or skull shining breath–benefits/how to practice
- Warnings and contraindications to this practice
- A simple, gently guided meditation
Links to connect with the community:
Thanks so much for listening! If you know someone else that you think we be interested in or could benefit from a simple meditation practice, be sure to send them this way.
Please let me know if you have any questions about intentions or suggestions for a future session!
Finally, I’d like to extend gratitude and warm wishes to you–may you have a wonderful and happy Thanksgiving!
Namaste,
