Nadi Shodhana
Yoga
Himalayan Institute
Hatha Yoga Pradipika (15th century), Chapter 2; Himalayan Institute pranayama guides
Nadi Shodhana, meaning "channel purification," is a pranayama (breath regulation) practice from the Hatha Yoga tradition, detailed in the Hatha Yoga Pradipika (15th century). It alternates breath between the left and right nostrils to balance the two main energy channels and calm the nervous system.
The Himalayan Institute was founded by Swami Rama in 1971 and is one of the foremost centers for the study of yoga and meditation in the West. The Hatha Yoga Pradipika, composed by Swami Svatmarama, is one of the three classical texts of Hatha Yoga.
Tips
- Keep the breath smooth and never forced. If a nostril is blocked, the Himalayan Institute recommends simply observing the natural breath rather than straining. - The inhale and exhale should be equal in length on each side. - The practice is traditionally done in the morning on an empty stomach as preparation for seated meditation.