Chandra Bhedana Pranayama

Chandra Bhedana Pranayama is one of the lesser known yogic breathing techniques in which you inhale through one nostril only, and out through the opposite nostril. Chandra refers to the moon, or ‘tha’ syllable in Hatha, which represents a cooling and calm energy. Bhedana means ‘piercing’, and this is why Chandra Bhedana is also known as the moon piercing breath.

This practice is carried out by inhaling through the left nostril, as this helps to clear any blockages in the Ida Nadi, which begins in Muladhara Chakra and ends in the left nostril. Ida Nadi governs the parasympathetic nervous system, and is therefore related to calmness and relaxation. In Sanskrit, Ida means ‘comfort’, and the Nadis are the energetic channels around the body that allow for the flow of Prana. In Ayurveda and yogic philosophy it is believed to be important to keep the Nadis free from blockages so the Prana can flow properly as it will improve both physical and mental health.

Ida Nadi is said to control all mental processes since it transports prana to the nervous system, which has a calming effect on the mind and body. It is also associated with feminine energy, the right/creative side of the brain, the left side of the body and introversion. Ida Nadi needs to be balanced with Pingala Nadi, which represents masculine energy, and thus our linear and logical side. As an example, if someone is blocked in their Ida Nadi, but has a free-flowing Pingali Nadi, this person may have the strength and energy required for a physical yoga practice, but lack the introspection required for spiritual awakening. In Hatha yoga, there is a big focus on balancing the Nadis for this reason.

Chandra Bhedana is a parallel technique to Surya Bhedana, which is done by inhaling through the right nostril, and can be found here.

1. Sit comfortably on the mat in any cross legged position.

2. Bring the right hand in Vishnu Mudra (index finger and middle finger bent towards the palm), and use the thumb to close the right nostril.

3. Inhale deeply through the left nostril and fill the lungs completely.

4. Engage the Jalandhara Bandha (chin lock) and Mula Bandha (root lock).

5. Retain the breath for as long as feels comfortable. In yogic texts, it is said that one should hold the breath until perspiration appears. However, listen carefully to your body, and never overdo it.

6. Release the Jalandhara Bandha (chin lock) and Mula Bandha (root lock), and exhale through the right nostril (Pingala Nadi), keeping the left nostril closed.

7. Continue in this manner for 5-10 rounds, or 1-3 minutes. Advanced practitioners can continue up to 80 rounds per sitting.

+ Beginners can practice without retaining the breath, but once they feel comfortable, they can use a ratio of inhalation, retention, exhalation of 1:4:2.

+ Do not perform Chandra Bhedana Prayanama in case of asthma, low blood pressure, cough and cold and issues related to the respiratory system.

+ Practice Pranayama on an empty stomach.

1. Reduces heat in the body

2. Relieves heartburn

3. Refreshes and energises the mind and body

4. Reduces high blood pressure

5. Reduces fever

6. Decreases the flow of bile from the gallbladder

7. Reduces tension, stress and other mental burdens

8. Daily practice can help to steady the mind 

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