Nadi Shodhanam

My favorite way to quiet my mind during a stressful day is practicing pranayama (breath purification), nadi shodhanam, also known as alternate nostril breathing. In yoga text this practice helps to observe the flow of energy of the mind and body, noticing in your own session which nostril has better flow of air than the other. The left nostril signifies the feminine, ida energy, that is cooling like the moon and is for the flow of cognition and consciousness. The right nostril signifies the masculine, pingala energy, that is warming like the sun and is for active senses for dynamic movement and expansive growth.

At different periods of our life it makes sense that it is easier for one nostril, or energy to flow more than the other. During the transitional period, when the nostrils have equal air flow, that is when you are able to turn your mind inward and experience peace.

After a few minutes of practicing this breathing exercise, your nervous system will calm, your mind will be still, and you can experience deeper self awareness.