Meera demonstrates Chandrabhedana Pranayama. Pictures by Rashbehari Das

Chandrabhedana Pranayama

In Chandrabhedana Pranayama, the left nostril (chandra nadi) is used for inhaling and the right nostril (surya nadi) for exhaling and this is why this pranayama is called Chandrabhedana. Chandra means the moon, the lunar force that governs mental force and resides in the left nostril. The breath is controlled with its inflow and outflow in a regulated movement. There is a typical rise and fall of breath as it finds its path through the left nostril (ida nadi) into the right nostril (pingala nadi).

TECHNIQUE

Sit on a mat either in Padmasana or Vajrasana. Keep the head and neck clear with erect back and shoulders. Keep the left hand on the left knee in Chin Mudra. Chin Mudra is a simple seal of the tips of the thumb and the index finger, with the remaining fingers all kept parallel to the mat/floor. Bringing the right palm before the face, place the ring finger over the left nostril keeping the nostril open (as shown in picture above). The right thumb seals the right nostril completely (as in the picture below) and the two middle fingers — the index and middle finger tips rest between the eyebrows. With all fingers in place, now slowly breathe in from the left nostril and breathe out from the right one.

Applying no force to open or close the nostrils, freely transfer the breath in and out, controlling the openings with the finger tips. One round of Chandrabhedana accomplished, repeat it for 10/20/30/50 rounds. Lie back in Shavasana for a while to end.

Precautions

If Padmasana (lotus pose) or Vajrasana (thunder-like pose) are difficult to perform because of stiff knees or hips, then take the easy option to sit on any base Sukhasana (easy pose). You may even sit on a chair or bed but keep the back and chest upright.

Do not perform Chandrabhedana if you have a cold, cough or fever.

Low blood pressure patients can avoid doing this as they can effectively practice Suryabhedana Pranayama.

Reduce repetitions if digestion is weak.

Never practice Suryabhedana and Chandrabhedana Pranayamas on the same day.

BENEFITS

Cools down the body.

Regulates and controls blood pressure.

Has a calming, peaceful effect on the mind.

Helps to increase weight, especially when done on an empty stomach

Relieves indigestion ailments like heartburn and ulcers.

Reach Meera, yoga therapist, Solace, at t2@abpmail.com