Prana is the "life force" that drives different functions in the human body. It is believed to be the underlying energy that animates all living beings. The prana flows through different pathways, which are nadis or subtle energy channels. There are three primary nadis—Ida, Pingala, and Sushumna—central to yogic practices.
Ida and Pingala nadis are generally seen as opposites. Ida is associated with the moon, which provides a cooling effect, while Pingala is associated with the sun and causes a heating effect to the body. As we inhale and exhale through different nostrils, these nadis are activated, generating different effects in the body. Sushumna, the central channel, is considered dormant until activated through practices like pranayama.
The Role of Pranas and Upa-Pranas
Varishta Prana Vayu is referred to here. It is categorized into five primary pranas: Prana, Apana, Samana, Udana, and Vyana. Each of these is responsible for specific bodily functions. Additionally, there are five Upa-Vayus associated with the primary prana.
Prana Vayu: Located in the heart, involved in inhalation and other intake processes.
Apana Vayu: Situated below the navel, regulates elimination and excretion.
Samana Vayu: Found in the navel area, deals with digestion and assimilation.
Udana Vayu: Located in the throat, responsible for ascending movements and sound production.
Vyana Vayu: Permeates the entire body, looking after the circulation and distribution of prana.
The Connection between Prana vayus and Upa vayus
The Prana vayus is connected to the Upa vayus. Let’s look into them more closely.
Prana vayu: It is connected to Naga vayu, which causes belching.
Apana vayu: It is connected to Koorma vayu, which aids in the functioning of eyes, such as blinking, opening, and closing.
Samana vayu: It is connected to Krikara vayu, which is responsible for sneezing, thirst, and hunger.
Udana vayu: It is connected to Devadata vayu, which supports yawning.
Vyana vayu: It is connected to Dhananjaya vayu that stays in the physical body after one passes away.
Surya Bhedana Pranayama: Tapping into Solar Energy
Surya Bhedana Pranayama, or Solar Piercing Breath, is designed to stimulate the Pingala Nadi. By emphasizing the right nostril, it increases the body's heat and energy levels. This is the best Kumbhaka method to clean the frontal sinuses, helping in getting rid of Vata dosha imbalances.
According to ancient texts like the Gheranda Samhita and Hatha Yoga Pradipika, Surya Bhedana is considered one of the Astha Kumbhaka techniques. As per the Gheranda Samhita, regular practice of Surya Bhedana helps in:
Prevent aging and death.
Increases body heat
Awaken the Kundalini energy.
The significance of guidance in Practice
Surya Bhedana pranayama is to be performed under utmost caution as it involves breathing through one nostril only, which if done erroneously may significantly disturb the functioning of the body. The path to higher consciousness through pranayama requires dedication, discipline, and faith. The guidance of a guru is invaluable, not only for correct technique but also for imparting the wisdom and intuition necessary for spiritual growth. Additionally, this practice should be complemented with other techniques.
Although knowledge and guidance play important roles, sadhak’s dedicated efforts and faith in the practice are the most crucial elements. As the Siva Samhita states, "A firm belief in the practice itself is the first condition."
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