Surya Bhedana

Definition: “surya” means sun, light, energy, brightness, shining, glowing and refers to pingala nadi; “bheda” means to pierce, pass through, or awaken. Surya Bhedana refers to the purifying of pingala nadi and activates rajas guna.

Technique: Practice in a seated posture with the eyes closed. Use Vishnu mudra with the right hand. Close the left nostril with the ring finger and slowly inhale through the right nostril, switch, close the right nostril and slowly exhale through the left nostril. This is one round. Repeat. Add breath retention to increase the energetics of the practice. Use a ratio suited for beginning to intermediate students of 1:4:2:1.

Benefits:

• Creates heat in the body, awakens the mind and activates pingala nadi reduces dullness and lethargy
• Counters imbalances of vata
• Prepares the mind/body for an alert meditation
• Useful in the treatment of low blood pressure, infertility, and worms

Cautions:

• Practice on an empty stomach and under the guidance of an experienced teacher.

Chandra Bhedana

Definition: “chandra” means moon, cool, soft, reflective and refers to ida nadi; “bheda” means to pierce, pass through, or awaken. Chandra Bhedana refers to the purifying of ida nadi and activates tamas guna.

Technique: Practice in a seated posture with the eyes closed. Use Vishnu mudra with the right hand. Close the right nostril with the ring finger and slowly inhale through the left nostril, switch, close the left nostril and slowly exhale through the right nostril. This is one round. Repeat. Add breath retention to increase the energetics of the practice. Use a ratio suited for beginning to intermediate students of 1:4:2:1.

Benefits:

• Creates cooling in the body, pacifies the mind and activates ida nadi calming the nervous system
• Prepares the mind/body for relaxation/savasana

Cautions:

• Practice on an empty stomach and under the guidance of an experienced teacher.