Nadi Shodhana: The Balancing Breath

Nadi Shodhana, or alternate nostril breathing, is a calming and balancing breathwork technique rooted in yogic tradition. Translated from Sanskrit, nadi means “channel” and shodhana means “cleansing,” reflecting the practice’s purpose of purifying the body’s energy pathways and restoring harmony between mind and body.

Practiced by gently closing one nostril at a time while inhaling and exhaling through the other, Nadi Shodhana brings immediate stillness to the nervous system. It activates the parasympathetic response, reduces heart rate, and eases mental chatter. By balancing the flow of breath between both nostrils, this technique helps harmonize the left and right hemispheres of the brain, enhancing mental clarity, focus, and emotional stability.

This practice is particularly helpful for managing anxiety, stress, and overwhelm. It encourages a deep connection to the present moment, allowing practitioners to feel grounded, centered, and calm. Just five minutes of Nadi Shodhana each day can lead to noticeable improvements in mood, sleep, and overall vitality.

Safe and gentle, Nadi Shodhana is suitable for nearly everyone and can be practiced anywhere. Whether as part of a yoga session or a standalone practice, it’s a powerful tool for cultivating inner peace and energetic balance.