Nadi Shodhana (Alternate Nostril Breathing)
Nāḍī Śodhana
A calm breath practice, closing one nostril with the fingers and breathing through each side in turn.
History
Nāḍī means channel and śodhana purification. Classical texts present it as preparation for further breath practices.
Philosophy
Balancing left and right has traditionally been seen as a path to harmony of body and mind.
Physical character
Done seated; easy to use when you want to slow down, or before sleep.
This page offers general information and is not medical advice. If you have a medical condition or are pregnant, consult a doctor or a qualified teacher before practising.
Related practices
- 011 Technique
Ujjayi Breath
Ujjāyī Prāṇāyāma
Breathing through the nose with a slightly narrowed throat, making a soft, ocean-like sound.
India · described in the Haṭha Yoga Pradīpikā
- 014 Technique
Bhramari (Bee Breath)
Bhrāmarī Prāṇāyāma
A breath practice of humming softly on the exhalation, like the sound of a bee.
India · described in the Haṭha Yoga Pradīpikā
- 026 Classical text
The Hatha Yoga Pradipika
Haṭha Yoga Pradīpikā
The classic haṭha manual by Svātmārāma, covering āsana, breath practice, mudrā and meditation in four chapters.
India · 15th century