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Channel Cleaning Breath

Last updated: December 21, 2023

What Does Channel Cleaning Breath Mean?

Channel cleaning breath is a Hatha yoga breathing technique that promotes overall health. It cleanses and purifies the nadis (energy channels) of the body. Also referred to as alternate nostril breathing, it promotes physical health and is also highly effective in maintaining mental health.

To perform channel cleansing breath, the practitioner sits in padmasana (lotus pose) and assumes gyan mudra (or chin mudra) with the left hand. Place the tips of the index and middle fingers of the right hand between the eyebrows. Press the right nostril with the thumb and inhale through the left nostril. Retaining the breath momentarily, close the left nostril and then exhale through the right. Repeat this same cycle from right to left, which completes one round. This can be repeated up to 10 times.

Channel cleansing breath is called nadi shodhana pranayama in Sanskrit.

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Yogapedia Explains Channel Cleaning Breath

Channel cleansing breath relieves stress, calms the mind and promotes mental clarity. According to Ayurvedic theory, it will also cleanse and balance the nadis so that prana can flow more freely and evenly through the chakras.

Some of the physical benefits of the practice include:

  • Strengthens respiratory system
  • Boosts immunity
  • Promotes circulation
  • Promotes flow of energy

Channel cleaning breath can be practiced at the beginning or end of a yoga sequence.


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Synonyms

Channel Cleansing Breath

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