What Is a Nadi
Nad means “motion” Nadis is a Sanskrit word which may be translated as “ tube, pipe, channel or flow”.
Nadis are the subtle tubes or channels through which the energies of the subtle bodies flow, the life force energy known as “Prana”. They are closely associated with the nervous system, stemming from the intertwining with the Chakras. These Nadis form the connecting link between the physical and subtle body, thus they are psycho and physical in nature.
There are 3 Nadis that are considered the most important:
Sushumna Nadi
The Sushumna, meaning “most gracious”. Passes through the spinal column, originating at the base of the body and ending at the top of the skull. Sushumna connects the Base Chakra to the Crown Chakra. It is the most important of the Nadis but remains dormant when the other 2 Nadis flow strongly. Sushumna is connected to the central nervous system and will only flow when Ida and Pingala Nadi are perfectly balanced.
Ida Nadi
Ida is a Sanskrit word which means “comfort”. It starts and ends to the left of Sushumna. Running from the left testicle in males through to the left nostril. Ida has feminine energy with a cooling effect and is associated with the moon and its lunar energies. It is introverted and is associated with the right side of the brain and the left side of the body. Ida controls the mental processes and carries pranic energy, nourishes and purifies the body and mind. It is believed to be connected to the parasympathetic nervous system and is associated with the cooling and calming ‘yin’ aspects of the body.
Pingala Nadi
Pingala is a Sanskrit word which means “tawny”. It starts and ends to the right of Sushumna, it flows from the right testicle in males and ends in the right nostril. Pingala Nadi is masculine and has a heating effect adding vitality, physical strength and efficiency. It governs the right side of the body and the left side of the brain. It is called surya or sun nadi and is related to solar energy. It is extroverted and controls all vital processes.
The Pingala Nadi is associated with the sympathetic nervous system.
The Ida and Pingala Nadis spiral around the Sushumna where they cross at each chakra point. These two nadis can be linked with the two hemispheres of the brain.
When our Nadi channels are clear, we have energy and vitality within the body and mind.
How you can stimulate your Nadis
Nadi Shodona Pranayama
Also known as alternate nostril breathing this pranayama practice is said to balance both the Ida and Pingala Nadis.
To perform this practice, sit comfortably and close your right nostril with your thumb. Inhale deeply through your left nostril, then close your left nostril with your Pinky finger and exhale through your right nostril.
Inhale through your right nostril, close it with your thumb, and exhale through your left nostril. Repeat for several rounds.
The word nadi means ‘channel’ or ‘flow ‘ of energy and shodhana means ‘purification’. Nadi shodhana, therefore, means that practice which purifies the nadis.
Pranayama which involves alternate nostril breathing through the left and right nostrils is stimulating for both the left and right sides of the brain.