Yoga Practice Name
Chandra Bhedana (चन्द्रभेदन)
- Bookmark
- Leave a review
- Share
- Report
- prev
- next
English Name
Moon Piercing Breath
Description and Steps
Description:
Chandra Bhedana is a pranayama technique where you breathe through the left nostril, activating the lunar (cooling) energy, calming the mind, and balancing the body's energy.
Steps:
- Sit in a comfortable, meditative posture (Sukhasana or Padmasana).
- Close the right nostril with the thumb of your right hand.
- Inhale deeply through the left nostril, focusing on the breath.
- Close the left nostril using the ring finger, and hold the breath for a moment (optional).
- Exhale slowly and completely through the right nostril.
- Continue alternating breaths, focusing on slow and controlled breathing.
General Benefits
- Calms the Mind: Helps reduce stress and anxiety by activating the cooling lunar energy.
- Balances Emotions: Promotes mental clarity, peace, and emotional stability.
- Improves Sleep: Can aid in improving sleep quality by calming the nervous system.
- Reduces Blood Pressure: Helps in lowering high blood pressure by calming the body.
- Enhances Focus: Brings a sense of inner calm, improving concentration and mental clarity.
- Promotes Relaxation: Induces a deep state of relaxation and helps reduce overactivity in the body.
- Cooling Effect: Helps balance excessive heat in the body, particularly during stressful situations.
Cautions-Limitations-Contraindications
- Avoid During Cold or Flu: If you have a cold, sinusitis, or congestion, avoid practicing as it can aggravate the condition.
- Respiratory Issues: People with asthma, bronchitis, or other breathing disorders should practice under supervision.
- Pregnancy: Pregnant women should avoid this pranayama or practice only after consulting a doctor.
- Excessive Practice: Overdoing Chandra Bhedana may cause dizziness or light-headedness due to excessive calming.
- Heart Conditions: Individuals with heart conditions should consult a healthcare provider before attempting this pranayama.
- Mindful Breathing: Do not strain or force the breath. Always breathe slowly and naturally to avoid unnecessary tension.
Complimentary Practice
- Nadi Shodhana: Alternate Nostril Breathing helps in balancing both the lunar (cooling) and solar (heating) energies in the body.
- Ujjayi Pranayama: Helps in calming the mind and enhancing focus, complementing the cooling effect of Chandra Bhedana.
- Brahmari: Bee Breath creates a soothing vibration in the body, promoting relaxation and further calming the mind.
- Sitali Pranayama: Cooling breath that works in harmony with Chandra Bhedana to enhance relaxation and reduce stress.
- Meditation: Practices like mindfulness or guided meditation help to deepen the calming effects of Chandra Bhedana.
Similar Practices
1.Nadi Shodhana, 2.Brahmari, 3.Ujjayi, 4.Anulom Vilom
Practice Keynotes
- Calm Environment: Practice in a quiet, comfortable setting to enhance focus and relaxation.
- Gentle Breathing: Inhale deeply through the left nostril (the lunar channel) and exhale through the right nostril. Keep the breath smooth and even.
- Mindful Focus: Focus on the breath and the calming effect it has on the body and mind.
- Posture: Sit in a comfortable, stable position with the spine erect to allow for free flow of breath.
- Duration: Begin with 5–10 minutes and gradually increase as you become more comfortable.
- Avoid Forceful Breathing: Do not force the breath; it should be smooth and natural.
- Mental Calmness: Keep the mind calm and avoid distractions during practice.
