Satyori — Chandra Bhedana Pranayama Quick Card
Pranayama Quick Card
Chandra Bhedana
Chandra Bhedana Pranayama · Chandra means 'moon'; Bhedana means 'piercing' or 'penetrating' — piercing or activating the lunar energy channel
About
Chandra Bhedana is the lunar counterpart to Surya Bhedana — a single-nostril pranayama in which all inhalations are performed through the left nostril (ida nadi, the lunar channel) and all exhalations through the right nostril (pingala nadi, the solar channel). This pattern systematically activates the parasympathetic nervous system, cools the body, and cultivates the receptive, intuitive, calming energy associated with the moon and the feminine principle in yogic philosophy.
How to Practice
Sit in a stable posture with the spine erect. Bring the right hand into Mrigi Mudra. Close the right nostril with the thumb.
Benefits
Chandra Bhedana activates the parasympathetic nervous system, producing measurable reductions in heart rate, blood pressure, respiratory rate, and cortisol levels. It is one of the most effective pranayama techniques for immediate stress relief, anxiety reduction, and nervous system calming.
Contraindications
Chandra Bhedana should be avoided during states of Kapha aggravation — lethargy, depression, excessive sleep, congestion, and heaviness. It is not recommended for individuals with very low blood pressure, as the parasympathetic activation can further reduce blood pressure.
Dosha Effect
Chandra Bhedana is strongly Pitta-pacifying and cooling, making it the primary single-nostril pranayama for Pitta imbalance. It cools the blood, calms the liver, reduces inflammation, and soothes emotional heat including anger, frustration, and impatience.
Classical Source
While not described as a standalone technique in the Hatha Yoga Pradipika (which focuses on Surya Bhedana), Chandra Bhedana is implied in the broader discussion of nadi activation and is explicitly taught in the Gheranda Samhita and later Hatha Yoga texts. It is a standard practice in the Bihar School of Yoga (Satyananda), Sivananda tradition, Iyengar Yoga, and modern therapeutic yoga.
Dinacharya Guide
Chandra Bhedana is one piece of a complete daily practice. The Dinacharya Guide gives you the full rhythm — ideal wake time, pranayama sequence, meals, movement, and evening practices matched to your dosha.