If you have been practicing yoga for some time, you must have heard of the term Chakras, the energy circles that impact a larger part of your anatomy. However, another important yogic term that you should know about is our yoga nadis.
Ever heard about it? Don’t worry! Remember, these are also vital aspects of the subtle body. The word Nadi translates to flowing water/river that flows through your entire body. Do you know there are a total of 72,000 nadis in the human body? However, there are three most important nadis and we shall read about them in detail below.
First, let us understand what exactly are yoga nadis.
Yoga Nadis – A Brief Intro
Yoga Nadis are subtle energy channels through which the sacred Prana energy flows. It is similar to the network of veins that carry blood throughout your circulatory system to keep your body alive.
Despite the large number of nadis, there are three which play a vital role namely Ida, Pingala, and Sushumna.
Keep in mind, all three nadis criss-cross each other and at one point form a double helix pattern. The point at which all these intersect leads to the formation of a major chakra.
Let us now understand what each of these nadis is in detail.
Ida – Left Energy Channel
The Ida Nadi starts at the base of your spine and runs up the central axis of the spine. This crosses the Sushumna Nadi at every major chakra and stops at your left nostril.
Ida is linked to the lunar side of your body. It is known as the Yin side which is more feminine, darker, mysterious, and softer. The Ida Nadi is linked to the right brain dominance which makes you creative and artistic.
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Pingala Nadi – Right Energy Channel
Pingala Nadi starts at the base of the Root Chakra. It runs up the central column of your spine, crosses the Sushumna and Ida nadis at every major chakra. The Pingala Nadi ends at your right nostril.
Keep in mind, Pingala Nadi is linked to the solar side of your body. It is the Yang side that is stronger, lighter, and masculine.
As it terminates at the right nostril, this Nadi is linked to left-brain dominance. It leans more towards analytical and methodical thinking.
Sushumna Nadi
The Sushumna Nadi is the most important energy channel located within your body. It is the central channel that runs from the base of your spine to the crown of the head and along the central axis of the core.
Do you know about the dormant serpent energy lying at the base of your spine, also known as the Kundalini energy? It is coiled around the Muladhara Chakra, which is known as the Root chakra.
On activation, this energy rises up the central channel of Sushumna Nadi and activates every chakra in its path to reach the Sahasrara Chakra (crown chakra). It is how you achieve enlightenment.
Do you want to cleanse all the Nadis and balance the sacred energy within? Read below.
Tips To Clear the Nadis
Given below are some powerful tips to clear the nadis and unlock the sacred energy within.
- Right Intention
Remember, energy flows where your attention is. Therefore, set clear intentions and always repeat positive affirmations. In other words, carry a positive attitude in life.
- Practice Hatha Yoga
To help you unlock all the yoga nadis the tool of yoga comes in handy. Yoga practice unlocks the stagnant energy and balances the Ida and Pingala Nadi. You should include Hatha yoga into your daily routine to cleanse all the nadis.
- Try Alternate Nostril Breathing
This is a powerful yogic breathing technique that balances the Ida and Pingala Nadi. It opens the sinuses which is a gateway for the sacred Prana to enter your body.
- Do an Ayurvedic Self-Massage
Whether you want to stimulate the Ida or Sushumna Nadi, a little massage stimulates the nadis and clears any congestion from your joints and muscles.
- Consume a Healthy Diet
Never forget, the key to maximizing the benefits of yoga lies in the diet you follow. Always be mindful of what you eat and how it impacts your mind and body. Remember, what you consume goes directly into your bloodstream within a few seconds.
Conclusion
Do you feel lethargic and angry for no reason? Maybe it is time you take a deeper look at what you eat and how you carry on the daily life. It is time you cleanse the yoga nadis of all toxins and unlock the sacred energy to enjoy life again.