Just like certain asanas that are appropriate to practice during menstrual period, there are also some yogic exercises you may want to avoid during period. Kapalbhati Pranayama is one of them, as it is forceful breathing and puts excessive pressure on the abdominal region and practicing it may be the most uncomfortable, especially if you tend to bleed a lot during this time. It is not recommended to perform Kapalbhati during menstrual periods due to its intensity and the potential to over-exert the body. It is best to avoid any strenuous activities during this time, as the body needs time to rest and heal. Similarly, Bhastrika Pranayama should also be avoided as it is fast breathing exercises which can generate heat and result in heavier bleeding. In the same line, you should also avoid Suraya bhedan pranayama (Right Nostril Breathing). Instead, gentle, calming practices such as meditation and restorative yoga can be beneficial during menstrual periods.
During the period, hormone levels drop and loss of iron reduces energy levels. So, sometimes, if you feel that you are not able to practice exercises as you normally do, you can skip or reduce the intensity of the exercises. If you do not experience any discomfort from your period, you can continue with your regular yogic exercise routine, but with only gentle movements. Studies shows that exercising helps women to counter the bloating and mood swings during menstrual periods.
Among pranayamas, you can continue with Anulom-vilom pranayama without retention of breath (Kumbhaka) and Brahmari pranayama. Likewise now – a- days when there is intensive hot in North India, you can also practice cooling pranayama - sheetali or sheetkari pranayama. Generally, it is difficult to sit in sukhasana or padmasana on the floor during the periods, in that case, you can avoid it and practice pranayama on chair keeping your back straight.
