Nadi Shodhana - Balancing Energy Through Nostril Breathing

Nadi Shodhana, also known as alternate nostril breathing, is a pranayama technique in yoga that aims to balance the flow of energy in the body and calm the mind.
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Activity
Where to get
Available in yoga classes and meditation centers
Prepared by Lee Cheng, reviewed by Dr. Helena Rodriguez

Nadi Shodhana FAQ

What is Nadi Shodhan?

The breathing technique is named Nadi Shodhan, as it helps clear out blocked energy channels in the body, which in turn calms the mind. ( nadi = subtle energy channel; shodhan = cleaning, purification; pranayama = breathing technique) How to Do Pranayama ? Sit comfortably with your spine erect and shoulders relaxed.

What is Nadi Shodhana pranayama?

In Sanskrit, it’s known as nadi shodhana pranayama. This translates as “subtle energy clearing breathing technique.” This type of breathwork can be done as part of a yoga or meditation practice. Alternate nostril breathing can also be done as its own practice to help you quiet and still your mind.

What is the difference between Nadi and Shodhana?

The term “Nadi” refers to the energy channels that exist within the subtle body, while “Shodhana” means purification. It is based on the concept that the body’s energy channels, or nadis, can become blocked or imbalanced, leading to various physical and emotional ailments.

Where does Nadi Shodhana come from?

The term comes from the Sanskrit nadi, meaning "channel," and shodhana, meaning "cleaning" or "purifying." Nadi shodhana should be practiced in a comfortable seated position with a straight spine and open heart.

What is Nadi Shodhana?

Nadi Shodhana, or “alternate nostril breathing,” is a simple yet powerful technique that settles the mind, body, and emotions. You can use it to quiet your mind before beginning a meditation practice, and it is particularly helpful to ease racing thoughts if you are experiencing anxiety, stress, or having trouble falling asleep.

What is Nadi Shodhan pranayama?

Nadis are subtle energy channels in the human body that can get blocked due to various reasons. The Nadi Shodhan pranayama is a breathing technique that helps clear these blocked energy channels, thus calming the mind. This technique is also known as Anulom Vilom pranayama. Toxicity in the physical body also leads to blockage of nadis

What is Nadi Shodhana / pranayama / breathing technique?

It will help release accumulated tension and fatigue. Nadi Shodhana calms the mind as it clears out blocked energy channels in the body. If you have only time for one Pranayama / breathing technique, practice this one. (nadi = subtle energy channel; shodhan = cleaning, purification; pranayama = breathing technique).

What is Nadi Shodhana / alternate nostril breathing?

Start your 2-week free trial or subscribe to enjoy full access to EkhartYoga. Nadi Shodhana / Alternate nostril breathing is the most important breathing technique to help keep the mind calm, happy and peaceful. It will help release accumulated tension and fatigue. Nadi Shodhana calms the mind as it clears out blocked energy channels in the body.

Nadi Shodhana References

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