Bhringasana: The Black Bee Pose for Detoxification

By Atul Vyas

Medical information doubles every 3 years. It is said that by 2030 medical data will double every 3 days. Yet it is an extremely long process to get something from the research stage into the medical curriculum and then into clinical practice.

It is for this reason what a student learns in a medical school is already outdated by the time he/she begins to practice medicines. Therefore it is argued that traditional conventional medical teachings should adopt integrative approaches like yoga and use the latest information in clinical care.

One of the most beneficial aspects of yoga is that it detoxifies both body and mind. According to yogic philosophy, all digestive dysfunction and consequential brain issues are due to the toxic inflammatory state of the body. It means inflammation inside the body due to toxins accumulation.

Toxins are eliminated from the body through digestion, excretion, respiration, and perspiration, and toxic thoughts through the nervous system. Yoga believes in the Ayurvedic concept of Vayu, the air or the breath.

All the movements in the body is controlled and regulated by Vayu or Vata as per yogic physiology. Vata or Vayu is responsible for all kinds of elimination.

The inside air of the body is divided and named in the body on basis of its location and function. There are five main Vayus in the body namely Prana – located in the chest region; Udana – in the throat; Samana – in the naval; vyana –entire body; and Apana – in the colon.

The Apana Vayu’s main function is elimination through excreta and urine. All the diseases of the pelvic region are due to the weakness of this air or breath e.g. prostrate, sexual dysfunctions, piles, fissures, etc. For a healthy body, this air needs to be strong and vibrant.

There are many yoga techniques to strengthen Apana and one of them is Bhringasana or the black bee pose.

Technique

  • Sit in Vajrasana – The Thunder Bolt pose
  • Inhale and retain the breath and then bend forward exhaling
  • Try to place the chest on knees and elbows on the ground in front of the knees
  • While inhaling through your mouth, raise your head a little and hold your breath as per your capacity
  • Repeat at least three times

Benefits

  • Purifies Apana Vayu
  • Keeps intestines in good health and in order
  • Prevents and cures stomach disorders
  • Relieves constipation
  • Relives accumulated gas in the abdomen

(The author likes to be called a “Yoga Scientist.” He is a celebrity yoga trainer and has trained several top Hollywood and Bollywood stars. He has trained for years under many eminent yoga gurus including his illustrious mother Daya Vyas, the first lady yoga guru of India.)

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