What is Chandra Bhedana Pranayama?
- Chandra Bhedana Pranayama, also known as Left Nostril Breathing, is a yogic breathing technique that is believed to have a cooling effect on the body and mind. In this practice, the inhalation is done through the left nostril while the right nostril is blocked, and the exhalation is done through the right nostril while the left nostril is blocked.
- To practice Chandra Bhedana Pranayama:
- Sit in a comfortable posture such as Sukhasana or Vajrasana.
- Close your right nostril with your right thumb and inhale deeply through your left nostril.
- Close your left nostril with your right ring finger and release your right nostril.
- Exhale completely through your right nostril.
- Inhale again through your right nostril while keeping your left nostril closed.
- Close your right nostril again with your right thumb and exhale through your left nostril.
- This completes one round. Repeat for 5 to 10 rounds, gradually increasing the duration of inhalation, exhalation, and retention as per your capacity.
- Chandra Bhedana Pranayama is believed to calm the mind, reduce anxiety and stress, balance the body’s temperature, and improve the digestive system. It is usually practiced in the evening or during the night to aid in relaxation and better sleep. However, it is important to practice pranayama under the guidance of a qualified yoga teacher to ensure that you are doing it correctly and safely.