Yoga BLOG
Candra Bhedana, the moon breathing
by Nick
on Sep 21 2016
Candra Bhedana, the moon breathing Moon breathing is a popular yoga exercise that helps you relax. It is therefore one of the calming breathing techniques. The word Chandra translates as "moon." The word Bhedana can be translated as "to break out" or "to break through." The yoga term for this breathing technique is Pranayama . Therefore, the correct name for Moon breathing is Chandra Bhedana Pranayama. We breathe through two nostrils; in yoga, the two nostrils are called nadi. The right nostril is called the Surya nadi, and the left nostril is called the Chandra nadi. The left nostril is therefore the center of lunar breathing, and in yoga, it is referred to as the lunar nostril. Benefits of Chandra Bhedana Pranayama Chandra Bhedana Pranayama is a simple and effective relaxation technique. The moon symbolizes coolness and calm; it is the counterpart to the sun, which represents fire, warmth, and energy. In Ayurveda, moon breathing is recommended whenever Pitta needs to be reduced. So, if you're agitated and have too much fire within you, moon breathing can help you bring yourself back into balance. This breathing technique is recommended for emotionally agitated states, for example, when you're angry, irritable, or frustrated. Moon breathing can, of course, be practiced at any time of day, but it's especially popular in the evening for relaxation. If you have trouble falling asleep, try Chandra Bhedana before bed. The exercise can help you fall asleep more easily. Many people also benefit from its calming effect in particularly stressful situations, such as before an exam. Moon breathing can help you concentrate when you're nervous. The benefits of Chandra Bhedana Pranayama at a glance:
Moon breathing reduces Pitta.
It helps you calm your mind and body and relax.
If you are stressed, angry, tense, or irritable, this exercise can help.
You can use Chandra Bhedana to prepare for an exam or to see if the technique helps you concentrate better (for example, when studying).
The breathing exercise is intended to reduce body heat and is therefore also recommended for fever.
In Ayurveda, moon breathing is used to treat high blood pressure and reduce bile flow.
Important instructions:
Chandra Bhedana Pranayama can be practiced by most people. However, people who suffer from asthma or low blood pressure should not perform the exercise without consulting their doctor. If you have a cold, you cannot perform the exercise. Instructions: How to perform moon breathing Like most breathing exercises, moon breathing can be performed in any sitting position. We recommend sitting in a yoga position or cross-legged . If that's not possible, you can simply sit on a chair or stool. Make sure you're sitting upright with your back straight. Bring the fingers of your right hand into the Pranayama Mudra position, pressing your index and middle fingers towards your palms. Bring your right hand to your face and close your right nostril with your right thumb. Inhale slowly and deeply through your left nostril until your lungs are filled with air (about 4 seconds). Hold your breath for a short time, about 4 seconds. Release your thumb from your right nostril and close your left nostril with your right ring finger. Now exhale slowly through your right nostril. The exhalation should take longer than the inhalation. Repeat the entire process ten times. You can practice moon breathing as needed, for example, in the evening to relax or as part of a yoga class. Chandra Bheda is not usually practiced daily, but only when Pitta is in excess or when there is nervous or mental tension. Image © fizkes / 123rf.com