A Gentle, Purifying Breathing Practice Alternate Nostril Breathing (known as Nadi Shodhana in Sanskrit, the language of yoga), is a breathing practice that is used as a purifying technique. It cleanses and balances the left and right hemispheres of the brain, promoting a sense of emotional balance. Symptoms of anxiety may be quickly relieved. It is safe for everyone, even pregnant people, as long as breathing easily through the nose is possible. Do not practice when you have a cold or fever.

How To Do Alternate Nostril Breathing

1. Sit comfortably and position your fingers with your thumb on one side of your nose and the ring fingertip on the opposite side, about halfway down the side of your nose.
2. Exhale completely then close the left nostril. Slowly inhale through the right nostril. At the top of the inhalation, close the right nostril and slowly exhale through the left.
3. When you are empty of breath, fully inhale through the left nostril, close the left nostril, and exhale through the right.
4. Inhale through the right, continuing this pattern. Cultivate a smooth and steady flow of breath. Remain calm and focused on the feeling of the gently flowing breath for up to five minutes. Visualize the energy both activating and balancing the brain.

Subtle But Powerful

If you begin to feel anxious, agitated, or light-headed, is it likely that you are over-doing it and pushing to make something happen. Ease back and slow down. It is a subtle, yet powerful practice that cultivates great sensitivity and refinement in your ability to be self-aware. Approach this breathing practice with patience. Trust the process and be consistent. Attune to the changes in your connection to inner-guidance.

If all you do for your mental and emotional well-being is this one breathing practice, you will be positively and significantly influencing your overall health—especially your mental health.

Breathing practices are about managing your energy, which creates a feeling of being fully alive, empowered, and aware of the entirety of who you are. When you know who you are, you know what to do to create a contented life to mindfully emerge.