Join me on the South side of Maui, as we practice a pranayama called Breath of Fire sometimes called kapalabhati (skull-shining) because it purifies the mind of cloudy or negative thinking.

Breath of Fire is a cleansing energizing breath powered by abdominal contractions. This breath can be used before meditation or asana (poses) to stimulate awareness and focus. It also deepens the breath by activating the diaphragm.

Breath of fire is a series of short sharp exhales out the nose by pulling the low belly back sharply. Inhales come naturally.

Start by taking a natural round of breath in and out, then breathe in about 75% full, exhale out the nose and draw the navel towards the spine to create a pumping motion. Focus on the exhales, the inhales are natural and passive,

Continue for about 10 to 20 abdominal contractions and then exhale completely. Take a natural round of breath in and out between rounds.

After 3 rounds of Kapalabhati continue to breathe naturally and observe any inner sensations as you drop into meditation. You might feel a little light headed or a buzz from all that breath, so take your time before standing up.