Nadi Shodhana

Nadi Shodhana, or “alternate nostril breathing,” is a simple yet powerful technique that settles the mind, body, and emotions. Also referred to as "Channel-clearing Breath," It encourages deep relaxation because it is believed to balanced the left and right sides of the brain while calming the nervous system. It relieves anxiety and quiets an unsettled mind.

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. It is recommend before bedtime or first thing in the morning if you are feeling a little unsettled .

How to;

· Sitting in comfortable position with lengthened spine, place ‘peace’ fingers on bridge of nose Use thumb and ring finger to alternately pinch bridge of nose on each side.

· First inhale right & exhale left to clear the airways, then –

· Inhale right, exhale left. Inhale left, exhale right.

· Continue alternating in this way, so that you inhale through the nostril from which you have just exhaled, then close off the nostril and exhale out the other side.

· Work up to inhaling 20 inhales and 20 exhales, finish with inhale right and exhale left.

As your lung capacity improves you can make your breaths longer but never force the breath, it should always feel comfortable and relaxed.