SuryaBhedi Pranayama

Duration – 3 to 4 Minutes

As the name suggests, Surya means Sun and Bhedi- is penetrating. The nerves (Nadi) of right nostrils is said to be Sun nerve and that of left as Moon nerve. “Ha” and “Tha” nerve or “Pingala” and “Ida” Nadi are also the same respectively and hence the Yoga Practice keeping them as central object of meditation called “Hatha Yoga”. They also represent hot and cold nature. Penetrating (Bhedna) them through regulated breathing, invigorates respective nerve currents. Surya-Bhedi performed in winte.

Caution - Yoga Aspirants who have history or complaint of High  blood pressure or any kind of cardiac problem, should not practice this Pranayama, or if want to practice, retain air ‘in’ mildly for little time.

1. Sit in any Comfortable Asana (  Padmasana, ArdhaPadmasana and Vajrasana etc. )

2. We make use of thumb and middle two fingers (Middle and index fingers) in regulating inhalation and exhalation through nostrils.

3. For practicing SuryaBhedi Pranayama, fully but gently close left nostril with the help of right two middle fingers.

4. Partially close right nostril with thumb and inhale deeply to capacity as if sucking a drink through straw.

5. Close both nostrils, retain air in, lock and then apply Jallandhar Bandha, (Draw your chin towards sternum notch, (KanthaKupa or throat pit) along with slightly bending head forward.

6. Maintain the posture for an affordable period and when needed raise head, open the lock and exhale through partially closed left nostril.

7. Remember to inhale and exhale through right and left nostrils respectively in every round of Surya Bhedi Pranayama.

8. Repeat the practice 3 times with little resting and breathing normally in between the two cycles. The process of breathing through nostrils is reversed while practicing Chandra Bhedi Pranayama.

Benefits of SuryaBhedi Pranayama – Surya Bhedi Pranayama increases heat in the body and digestive power. It soothes and invigorates the nerves and cleanses sinus. It is good for persons suffering from low blood pressure.