“Chandra” refers to the moon, and “Bhedana” means passing or piercing. Thus, Chandra Bedhana is known as the moon-piercing breath.
In Chandra Bhedana Pranayama, the left nostril is used for inhalation and the right nostril is used for exhalation. It is said that on inhalation, energy passes through Ida (Chandra) Nadi and exhalation through Pingala or Surya Nadi. These are larger Nadis that hold the balance of energy created by the sun and the moon, and the magnetism. And they travel from the base of the spine to the point between the eyebrows.
Scientifically, left-nostril breathing is known as Unilateral Forced Nostril Breathing (UFNB). Research indicates that it activates the Parasympathetic Nervous System, which lowers heart rate and reduces blood pressure by stimulating the vagus nerve. This makes it a natural remedy for anxiety and high-stress environments.
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In other words, Chandra Bhedi (or Bhedana) is just the opposite of Surya Bhedi and activates the Ida Nadi that is associated with the cooling aspect and the parasympathetic nervous system.
Benefits of Chandra Bhedana Breath Technique
Relieves mental tension- Its regular practice relieves mental tension and calms the mind. Stress is a disorder characterized by mood.
Activates Chandra or Ida Nadi – By this, the Chandra Nadi becomes active. Coldness is transmitted to the entire umbilical cord of the body.
Relieves in Pitta Disease – By doing this pranayama, there is great benefit in pitta disease. Pitta is a type of digestive juice.
Balance High Blood Pressure- People who have high blood pressure problems should do this pranayama regularly. It helps in controlling blood pressure.
- Chandra Bhedi Pranayam reduces body heat.
- it is Useful in heart-burning problems.
- Very effective in high blood pressure.
- Useful in fever.
- The mind becomes steady by the daily practice of this Pranayam.
- Helps in reducing tension, stress, and other mental problems.
- Reduces the flow of gall.
- In last, The benefits of this pranayama are quite opposite to the benefits of Suryabhedi pranayama.
“Practice Chandra Bhedana Pranayama: Download today app 7pranayama from App store or Play store”
How to Start Chandra Bhedana (Left Nostril Breathing) Pranayama:
1. First of all, Sit in a comfortable pose. We advise you to sit with your backbone straight and make sure you fill breath in lungs.
2. In Chandra Bhedana (Left Nostril Breathing) pranayama, inhalation is done only through left nostril and exhalation is done only through the right nostril. The thumb is used to close the right nostril and the ring finger is used to close the left nostril.
3. Now, Choose a level of exercise in app 7pranayama you can easily keep up with and breathe comfortably.
A standard advanced ratio is 1:4:2. For example: Inhale for 4 seconds, Hold for 16 seconds, and Exhale for 8 seconds.
Pranayama beginners should start with the ratio of 1:1 for inhaling and exhale. For instance, if you inhale through one nostril for 4 seconds, then the exhalation from the other nostril should also be for 4 seconds.
As you progress, the ratio for inhaling and exhaling can be changed or increase to 1:2, which means if inhalation is 4 seconds, then exhalation is 8 seconds.
4. Close Your Eyes.
💡 Pro Tip: Because this practice activates the cooling ‘moon’ energy, it is the perfect sequence to perform right before bed to combat insomnia, or after a heated yoga session to bring your body temperature back to baseline.
Ration for Calm
| Level | Inhale (Left) | Hold (Kumbhaka) | Exhale (Right) | Best For |
| Beginner | 4 Seconds | 0 Seconds | 4 Seconds | Stress relief for newcomers |
| Intermediate | 4 Seconds | 0 Seconds | 8 Seconds | Deepening relaxation |
| Advanced | 4 Seconds | 16 Seconds | 8 Seconds | Deep meditative states |
How Does It Work ?
Press ‘Start’ to begin:
1. Close the right nostril, using your right thumb and start breathing in. Try to use full seconds.
2. Hold both nostrils, using your thumb and ring finger. Hold your breath as fell comfortable.
3. After this, Open your right nostril and breath out slowly and steadily.
4. Finally, Repeat from Step 1.
Surya Bhedana and Chandra Bhedana Pranayama
Both, Surya bhedana or Chandra bhedana are the basic breathing exercises, that is mentioned in Hatha Yoga.
While Left Nostril Yoga breathing or Chandra Bhedana, which is done by inhaling from the left nostril and subsequent exhalation from the right nostril, the dominance to Ida – that representative of parasympathetic activation. The Right Nostril Yoga breathing or Surya Bhedana, which is done by inhaling from the right nostril and subsequent exhalation from the left nostril, the dominance to Pingla- representative of sympathetic activation.
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Precautions
Avoid in Cold Conditions: Do not practice during winters or if you have a cold/phlegm, as it increases body cooling.
Medical Conditions: People with low blood pressure, asthma, or depression should consult a teacher first, as this practice can further lower energy and pressure.
Initial Stage: Beginners should skip Kumbhaka (breath retention) until they are comfortable with the basic flow.
Conclusion
Chandra Bhedana Pranayama is more than just a breathing exercise; it is a natural “cooling system” for the mind and body. By focusing on the left nostril, you directly tap into your body’s relaxation response, making it an essential practice for anyone struggling with high blood pressure, insomnia, or daily stress. Whether you are a beginner or an advanced practitioner, incorporating just a few minutes of this moon-piercing breath into your evening routine can lead to profound mental clarity and physical calm.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Yes. In fact, it is highly recommended for those suffering from insomnia or racing thoughts. Practicing for 5–10 minutes before bed helps switch the body into “rest and digest” mode.
Most practitioners use the Vishnu Mudra with the right hand. Fold your index and middle fingers toward the palm, using the thumb to close the right nostril and the ring finger to close the left.
While generally safe, people with low blood pressure or those currently suffering from a heavy cold/cough should avoid it, as it is a cooling practice that may further lower pressure or increase phlegm.
It is generally advised not to perform both “Piercing” breaths in the same session. Instead, stick to Chandra Bhedana when you need to cool down and Surya Bhedana when you need energy. For a daily balance of both, practice Nadi Shodhana (Alternate Nostril Breathing) instead.
