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Surya Bhedana Pranayama It is an effective yogic breathing method that aims to increase our energy of the body’s energy from the sun’s (heating) power. The word Surya is a reference to the Sun and Bhedana is a verb that means to cut and channel. Thus, Surya Bhedana Pranayama means “piercing or channelling through the Sun energy pathway” — specifically the right nostril, which is a reference to Pingala Nadi in yogic science.
What is Surya Bhedana Pranayama?
Surya Bhedana is one of the pranayama methods that are described in yogic texts of the past, like The Hatha Yoga Pradipika. It involves inhaling through your right nostril (Surya Nadi or Pingala) and exhaling through the left nostril (Chandra Nadi or Ida).
It is a method of creating internal warmth, stimulating the body’s nervous system, increasing digestion and boosting energy levels. It is also beneficial for people suffering from a slow metabolism or weak health levels. Surya Bhedana Pranayama is an ancient yoga breathing method that focuses on boosting the body’s sun energy. It’s often connected with the left nostril of yoga science.
Surya Bhedana Pranayama can be described as a yoga breathing technique that is focused on boosting your body’s sun energy. It is often linked to the right nostril of yogic science. The name is derived from two Sanskrit words:
- Surya, which means sun (the sun’s source of energy)
- Bhedana is a term used to mean to penetrate the channel or cut through.
How to Practice Surya Bhedana Pranayama
- Location: Quiet, tidy and well-ventilated area
- Posture: Relax and sit in a comfortable position in Padmasana, Siddhasana, or any other meditative posture.
- Mudra: Make use of Vishnu Mudra (right-hand thumb and the ring finger) to alternate nostrils
- Time: Early in the morning with a full stomach is a good idea.
Surya Bhedana Pranayama It’s an easy, but powerful method that requires a conscious control of breath. This comprehensive guide will show you how to master it:
Preparation
- Find a Comfortable Seat:
Find an upright and comfortable posture, like Padmasana (Lotus Pose), Siddhasana, or any other meditation posture that keeps the spine in a straight line and your body at ease. - Ensure a Calm Environment:
Find a quiet, clean, and well-ventilated area. It’s recommended to practice this in the early morning with a full stomach to reap the maximum advantages.
Mudra:
- Make use of Vishnu Mudra, in which you utilize the right side of your hand to close your nostrils. Your thumb and ring fingers are employed to open and close the nostrils, respectively.
Surya Bhedana Pranayama : Step-by-Step
Step 1: Begins by introducing the concept of relaxation
- Shut your eyes.
- You can take a few minutes to ease your body and calm your mind.
- Be aware of your breathing, and be aware of your breathing and the body.
Step 2: Close the Left Nostril
- Make use of the finger that is on the ring of the right hand and close your left nostril.
Step 3: Inhale Through the Right Nostril (Surya Nadi)
- Take an inhale with a steady, slow process by breathing through your right nostril (Surya Nadi or Pingala) Be sure that your breathing is consistent and controlled. As deeply as you can to take in the maximum amount of air as you can.
Also Read: Virabhadrasana 3 (Warrior III Pose): Benefits, Steps, Key Tips & Contraindications
Step 4: Close the Right Nostril
- After you’ve completed your breathing, use your thumb to close your right nostril, ensuring your breath is in your body.
Step 5: Exhale Through the Left Nostril (Chandra Nadi)
- Make sure to open your left nostril by gently flicking your finger. This holds these rings.
- Take a deep breath and breathe softly through the left nostril (Chandra Nadi and Ida) and let go of any tension or tension.
Step 6: Complete One Round
- It’s the final stage in the course of Surya Bhhedana Pranayama (Inhale through one nostril on your left. Hold, then exhale through your middle. Hold, then exhale out of your right ).
Repeat the Process:
- You’ll need to complete 5–10 rounds, according to your comfort level.
- Keep a consistent speed and keep your breathing throughout the workout.
Additional Tips:
- Breathing Mindfully: pay focus to your breathing, and allow it to be a part of your body.
- The Pace: Make sure that the exhale and the inhale are simple, stable, and steady.
- Relax: Don’t perform it in a rush. Concentrate on staying calm and in a focused mental state.
Benefits of Surya Bhedana Pranayama (Sun Piercing Breath)
Surya Bhedana Pranayama is a vigorous and stimulating breathing practice that has the potential to provide many mental, physical and energetic positive effects. Through activating the left nostril (Surya Nadi), this pranayama assists in activating the sun’s energy in your body improving overall health and well-being.
These are some of the most important benefits:
1. Physical Benefits:
Improves Digestion
- Surya Bhedana stimulates the digestive fire (Agni) in your body, which enhances your digestion and absorption. It is particularly beneficial to those suffering from digestive issues or slow metabolism.
Boosts Energy Levels
- The practice stimulates the sympathetic nervous system which produces heat and enhances the amount of energy. It assists in the fight against fatigue or low energy levels. It also gives an instant power boost.
Improves Circulation and Blood Flow
- By activating the nostrils on one’s left (associated with Pingala Nadi), Surya Bhedana increases blood flow and allows for greater oxygen and nutrients to tissues and organs.
Promotes Detoxification
- The inhalation and exhalation process aids the elimination of toxins out of your body, by improving lymphatic drainage and general elimination.
Supports Weight Loss
- This technique encourages metabolism growth, which helps in losing fat and aids in weight loss.
Relieves Sinus Problems
- Continuously performing Surya Bhedana is an excellent method of clearing congestion from the sinuses since it improves the airflow through the nose, which is beneficial to the health of your respiratory system.
2. Mental & Emotional Benefits:
Enhances Mental Clarity
- A lengthy and steady breathing pattern can assist in easing stress and increase focus and concentration. It can help reduce mental fatigue and help to concentrate.
Boosts Mood
- The rise in energy and increased circulation of oxygen to the brain can improve mood and assist in the treatment of anxiety or depression.
Relieves Stress
- While it is great for reviving your body, mind, and soul, it also aids in relaxing your mind by bringing attention back to breathing, calming your mind, and relaxing tensions in the body.
3. Energetic Benefits:
Balances the Nadis
- Surya Bhedana focuses on activating the Pingala Nadi (solar, active energy channel) which is balanced by that channel. Ida Nadi (lunar, passive energy channel). If these channels are in balance, they balance the body’s energy and lead to a more balanced and more vibrant state.
Improves Prana Flow
- There is a belief that the Surya Bhedana can increase your flow of Prana (life power energies) via the nose. It also, when practised consistently, increases the general energy of the body.
Enhances Solar Energy
- The practice harnesses solar energy to bring vitality, warmth, and energy into your physical body. It makes you feel more energized and rejuvenated, making it a brilliant choice for people suffering from emotional or physical fatigue.
4. Other Health Benefits:
Improves Respiratory Function
- Regular practice can help strengthen the respiratory system, allowing breaths that are controlled and deep. This improves the performance and capacity of the lungs, which makes it easier to breathe deeply.
Detoxifies the Body
- The greater flow of oxygen to the tissues and organs helps in the process of detoxification, aiding in the elimination of the body of toxins and waste.
5. Spiritual Benefits:
Increases Focus During Meditation
- When you practice Surya Bhedana, you help get rid of any distractions, allowing you to focus and increase your connection to the present moment.
Promotes Inner Balance
- Since Surya Bhedana activates and balances the body’s energy and energy, it could lead to a more balanced and harmonious well-being both emotionally and physically.
Surya Bhedana Pranayama can be an extremely beneficial and flexible practice that can help to improve your physical health, but also improve mental focus, and stability in the emotional and energy balance. If you’re looking to increase your energy levels and focus or improve digestion, the powerful pranayama practice will help you live an overall healthier, happier life.
Precautions & Contraindications
While Surya Bhedana Pranayama offers numerous benefits, however, it is essential to do it with caution, particularly for those suffering from certain ailments. Here are the precautions and contraindications you must keep in your mind.
Surya Bhedana Pranayama has many benefits, however, it is important to practice it with caution, particularly for those suffering from specific ailments. Here are some precautions and contraindications to be aware of before starting:
Precautions:
Do Not Overstrain:
Take note of your level of comfort. Do not over-exhale or inhale beyond the limit of your ability. Breathing should remain steady, slow, and controlled. Don’t keep your breath for too long, particularly in the early phases of your journey.
Focus on Breath Quality:
Make sure to breathe slowly and deeply in a consistent and steady breathing. Do not breathe too fast or shallow as it may create anxiety and nausea. If you experience light-headedness, then you should rest and resume your regular breathing.
Do Not Rush:
It requires concentration and focus. Be sure to take your time throughout each breath cycle, and allow your internal rhythm to shift. Don’t hurry through your workouts.
Start Slowly:
In case you’re only starting pranayama, you’ll want to start with a minimum of 3 to 5 minutes. Gradually increase the amount of time you practice until you are more comfortable in the practice of pranayama.
Practice on an Empty Stomach:
Surya Bhedana is best practised with an empty stomach. It is recommended to perform before the start of the session. This will ensure that the energy emitted is not absorbed through digestion, which may create discomfort during your training.
Contraindications:
1. High Blood Pressure (Hypertension)
- Surya Bhedana stimulates the sympathetic nervous system, which increases the internal temperature, which can increase blood pressure. Anyone with high blood pressure must be cautious about this exercise, or do it under supervision by an experienced instructor.
2. Heart Conditions
- If you suffer from any heart-related issues (such as arrhythmias and heart disease) It is recommended to stay clear of Surya Bhedana as the increased energy levels and pressure inside the body may not be appropriate for people with heart conditions.
3. Anxiety or Panic Disorders
- The pranayama practice can be stimulant and exhilarating, however, it might not be appropriate for those who are prone to anxieties or panic attacks because it could exacerbate these symptoms.
4. Fever or Heat-related Conditions
- Surya Bhedana increases internal heat and is potentially harmful in the event of an illness that causes fever, such as hyperthyroidism, in which your body is already hot. Avoid using it during illness or if you experience any discomfort caused by heat.
5. Pregnancy
- Pregnant women should not take part in Surya Bhedana because it’s an exercise that may not be appropriate during the pregnancy. Always consult a doctor before engaging in any new exercise routine during pregnancy.
6. Respiratory Disorders
- Although Surya Bhedana can benefit the respiratory system of healthy people, patients with chronic bronchitis, asthma, or other serious respiratory conditions should seek advice from a physician before performing this practice. In certain instances, this technique may cause discomfort or worsen symptoms.
7. Children and Elderly
- Seniors and children who have fragile health are unlikely to benefit from the powerful stimulant effects that are a part of Surya Bhedana. A gentler pranayama practice, or one that is specifically designed to meet their needs, must be thought about.
Also Read: Virabhadrasana (Warrior Pose): Steps, Benefits & Variations for Strength & Stability
Final Thoughts
Surya Bhedana Pranayama is a powerful and transformative exercise that is an integral part of Yoga’s tradition. Engaging in the breath performed through the right nasal passage (Pingala Nadi) draws the sunlight’s energy to rejuvenate your body and mind and increase energy, vitality, and clarity.
Suppose you’re looking to expand your understanding of the practice and understanding of pranayama. In that case, Rishikul Yogshala Rishikesh offers a 200 hour yoga Teacher Training Course that incorporates the traditional methods of Surya Bhedana Pranayama. The comprehensive course is designed to give you the foundation for the philosophy of yoga, postures and pranayama, enabling you to develop into a competent and experienced yoga instructor. The quiet and peaceful setting of Rishikesh, which is referred to for being the Yoga Capital of the World provides the ideal setting to fully immerse yourself in this transforming practice.
