Bellows Breathing

In this rigorous exercise, I push air in and out abruptly through my nose, primarily using the chest and ribcage muscles. The exercise improves my lung flexibility and strengthens my chest muscles.

‘Bellows breathing’ is a rapid, continuous, and rhythmic form of breathing exercise. I combine it with intensive breathing and synchronize it with my arm movements. I minimally engage my diaphragm or abdominal muscles, using mainly the ribcage and chest muscles. The inhaling and exhaling durations are equal.

Blacksmiths use bellows for churning up a fire, and that sometimes creates confusion with other ‘fire exercises.’