Surya Bheda

Breathing Exercise (Pranayama) - Surya-Bheda (Right-nostril breathing)

Breathing is the source of life. This is the basic reason why Ancient Yogis developed different Breathing Techniques, from Beginner or Basic to Advanced Breathing Techniques. These Breathing Techniques or Pranayamas are designed to allow the free flow of energy in the body and to purify the body's energy channels called nadis. The practice of Pranayama also ensures that every cell in the body receives oxygen and nutrients.

Surya means sun, referring to the right nostril which is the path of the Pingala Nadi. When you inhale solely through this nostril, heat is created in the body and the impurities that blocks the flow of Prana are dispelled. You may start your practice by repeating Surya Bhedana ten times and slowly build up a to forty.

Surya-Bhedana (Right-Nostril Breathing)

This refers to the Breathing Exercise in which you inhale through the right nostril and exhale through the left, holding the inhaled breath as long as possible before exhaling. Beginners should expect to use their fingers in order to close either nostril, though you may eventually develop an ability to do this without using the fingers. You may close your nostrils in any way you choose to; but the traditional technique which has been the standard practice is as follows:
Press the index and middle finger of the right hand against the palm of that hand
Use the thumb to close the right nostril and the ring and little fingers to close the left nostril.
If your are left handed, you may reverse this procedure.
When both nostrils are open, the fingers rest on the bridge of the nose.