Wk 199 – Pranayama- Surya & Chandra Bedhana

This session we will be focusing on Surya Bedhana and Chandra Bedhana. The term "Surya Bedhana" is derived from Sanskrit, where "Surya" means "sun" and "Bedhana" means "piercing" or "penetrating." It is often translated as "sun-piercing breath" or "right nostril breathing.” Related to the pingala nadi, or solar energy channel. The purpose is to help alleviate symptoms of lethargy, fatigue, or low mood by increasing vitality, stimulate the sympathetic nervous system, and promote alertness, mental clarity and physical energy. The term "Chandra Bedhana" is derived from Sanskrit, where "Chandra" means "moon" and "Bedhana" means "piercing" or "penetrating." It is often translated as "moon-piercing breath" or "left nostril breathing.” related to the "ida" nadi, or lunar energy channel. This practice is said to help reduce stress, anxiety, and tension, promoting a sense of relaxation, inner peace, calmness and receptivity. There are a few ways to work with Surya Bedhana pranayama. The first involves inhaling through the right and then exhaling through the left and repeating this cycle. Then we will be inhaling and exhaling exclusively through the right nostril while the left nostril is closed off using Kapalabhati Pranayama.  Chandra Bedhana pranayama is the same however just opposite which involves inhaling through the left,...