Bhastrika – Bellows

Source: Gheranda Samhita, Upadesha 5, Verses 75, 76 & 77

As the bellows of the ironsmith constantly contract and expand, similarly, the belly muscles pump the breath out and in with equal emphasis on the inhale and exhale. The breaths are short and quick. Exhale sharply pulling the belly in and up then inhale spontaneously allowing the belly to expand. Both inhalation and exhalation are from the nose.

This breathing is like a bellows feeding the digestive fire, the jatar agni. This technique is excellent for removing fatigue or any disorder related to the digestive system.