by Michelle Estevez: The role our breath plays goes beyond filling our lungs with precious air…

It serves as the starting point for a lot of our body’s functions. While it is something we do without thinking twice about, our breath also has a lot to do with monitoring our heart rate and reseting the pace of our mind. For most, it may seem unnatural to breathe deeply when not in a meditative state. It makes sense. We live in a society that is always moving and the breath typically follows. However, how we choose to practice with our breath also plays a role in how we view ourselves. The breath of fire is a technique that lights you up and brings you into your power.

What Is the Breath of Fire?

Also referred to as Kapalabhati Pranayama or “Cleaning Breath,” the breath of fire is a technique made up of short powerful inhales and strong intense exhales. It is not something you would do all day long. Most practitioners find it easy to do this for 1-3 minutes. Others reach a 10 minute mark. Either way, it goes beyond how long you go and is recommended you perform it only after consulting with a qualified instructor who has practiced this breathing technique and is familiar with it. With that being said, pregnant women, or those on their first three days of menstruation, are advised not to practice this. 

Whether meditation is a part of your daily practice or not, exercising the breath of fire is a simple yet effective way to connect with your higher self.

Breath of Fire Benefits 

There are many benefits to practicing the breath of fire daily. On a physical level, it assists in cleansing the lungs and flow of chi in the body. Energetically, it is a tool that helps usher you in your power. Correlating to the abdominal area—where the solar plexus chakra lies—this is the core of your being. It is your internal sun. When you breathe fire into this space, you are breathing it into all aspects of your life. 

• Strengthens and Tones Abdomen
• Improves Decision Making Skills
• Increase Blood Circulation
• Connection to Higher Self
• Mind/Body Harmony
• Let Go of Negative Habits
• Improve Digestive System
• Strengthens Aura
• Balances Nervous System
• Generates Heat

The breath of fire is a great technique to cleanse the physical and energetic body. A daily practice can bring clarity and empowerment. This strengthening exercise allows your energetic and physical body to work together when it comes to the “I do” aspect of your life. What do you hope to achieve?