Kapalabhati Pranayama, known as the 'Skull Shining Breath,' is a foundational kriya (cleansing action) in Hatha Yoga, primarily detailed in the Hatha Yoga Pradipika (2.35-36) and the Gheranda Samhita (1.54-56). The term 'Kapalabhati' is derived from 'kapala' (skull) and 'bhati' (shining or illuminating), indicating its purpose to purify the cranial sinuses and invigorate the mind. While not a mantra in the traditional sense of a recited sacred syllable, the practice is often accompanied by mental repetition of bija mantras such as 'Om' or 'Agni' (fire) to enhance the fiery, cleansing quality of the breath.
The Gheranda Samhita describes Kapalabhati as one of the six shatkarmas (purificatory techniques) and recommends it for eliminating phlegm and excess kapha dosha. The breath itself is a form of mantra, with the forceful exhalation (rechaka) and passive inhalation (puraka) creating a rhythmic sound that resonates in the nasal passages, akin to a bellows fanning the internal fire (jatharagni). According to the Hatha Yoga Pradipika, regular practice of Kapalabhati awakens the kundalini shakti and purifies the nadis (energy channels).
The associated deity is Prana Devata (the life-force deity) and Agni (fire), as the technique stimulates the manipura chakra (solar plexus) and the element of fire. The recommended chanting context is during morning sadhana, ideally after asanas and before meditation, with a count of 20-120 breaths per round, performed in three rounds. Cautions include avoiding practice by those with high blood pressure, heart conditions, or vertigo; it should be done on an empty stomach and under the guidance of a qualified teacher.
The Mantra Mahodadhi (a later tantric text) also references similar breath-based mantras for purification, aligning Kapalabhati with the tantric concept of 'agni-dhyana' (fire meditation). The practice is pan-Indian and globally recognized in modern yoga traditions.
Salutations to the skull-shining practice.