Chandra Bhedana Pranayama (Left Nostril Breathing)

 

Chandra Bhedana Pranayama (Left Nostril Breathing) – A Complete Guide with Reference

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1. Introduction

Chandra Bhedana Pranayama (चन्द्रभेदन प्राणायाम), or Left Nostril Breathing, is a cooling, calming, and introspective yogic breath practice. It activates the Ida Nadi, associated with the moon (Chandra), which governs mental calmness, emotional balance, and cooling energy. This technique is ideal for relaxing the nervous system, reducing heat or agitation, and preparing the mind for meditation and sleep.

🔹 Reference: Hatha Yoga Pradipika (Chapter 2, Verse 50) refers to lunar breath control (Ida Nadi activation) as effective in cooling the system and pacifying mental disturbances.

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2. Meaning & Etymology

• Sanskrit Name: चन्द्रभेदन प्राणायाम (Candra Bhedana Prāṇāyāma)

• Meaning:

  • Chandra = Moon

  • Bhedana = Piercing or Activating

  • Pranayama = Breath Control

• Literally, it means “piercing the moon channel” – promoting cool, tranquil energy and nervous balance through left nostril inhalation.

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3. How to Practice Chandra Bhedana Pranayama

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Sit in a Comfortable Meditation Posture

   • Use Sukhasana, Padmasana, or Vajrasana. Keep the spine erect.

2. Use Vishnu Mudra with the Right Hand

   • Block the right nostril with the thumb.

3. Inhale Slowly Through the Left Nostril

   • Draw the breath deeply and calmly.

4. Close the Left Nostril & Exhale Through the Right Nostril

   • Use the ring finger to gently press the left nostril.

5. Repeat for 5–10 Rounds

   • Maintain steady, rhythmic breath cycles.

📌 Tip: Unlike Anulom Vilom, this practice uses inhalation only through the left and exhalation only through the right nostril.

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4. Benefits of Chandra Bhedana Pranayama

Physical Benefits:

✔ Cools body temperature and internal heat
✔ Relieves acid reflux, skin inflammation, and hot flashes
✔ Helps with fevers and excess pitta conditions
✔ Improves left lung function and nasal passage clarity

Mental & Emotional Benefits:

✔ Reduces anxiety, irritability, and restlessness
✔ Promotes mental calm, patience, and relaxation
✔ Supports emotional regulation and inner stillness

Spiritual Benefits:

✔ Activates the Ida Nadi (Lunar Energy Channel)
✔ Balances mental and emotional energies
✔ Supports meditative states and introspection

🔹 Reference: The Yoga Sutras of Patanjali (1.34) states, "Calm is attained by exhalation and retention of breath." Chandra Bhedana slows the breath to soothe mental agitation and deepen awareness.

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5. Precautions & Contraindications

Avoid or Modify Chandra Bhedana if you have:

• Asthma or severe bronchial disorders

• Low blood pressure (can increase drowsiness)

• Depression (practice only with guidance)

🔹 Tips for Beginners:

• Practice in the evening or after intense mental activity

• Focus on slow, deep breathing and mental silence

• Keep sessions brief (3–5 minutes) and build gradually

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6. Variations & Advanced Practices

🔸 Chandra Bhedana with Kumbhaka (Breath Retention): Retaining breath post-inhalation for energy control
🔸 Chandra Bhedana with Mantra Chanting: Using silent chanting (e.g., So-Ham) to deepen focus
🔸 Cooling Alternate Nostril Flow: Combine with Sheetali or Sheetkari for added cooling effect

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7. Conclusion

Chandra Bhedana Pranayama is a gentle, restorative breathwork practice that activates the moon’s calming energy to balance stress, reduce heat, and prepare the mind for sleep or meditation. It is ideal for evening routines, emotional regulation, and managing pitta-related imbalances.

🔹 Reference: Light on Pranayama by B.K.S. Iyengar praises Chandra Bhedana for its role in mental pacification, energy rebalancing, and creating a meditative internal space.