Sūrya Bhedana
Sūrya Bhedana (सूर्य भेदन) is a prāṇāyāma technique in which inhalation is performed exclusively through the right nostril (the sun channel) and exhalation through the left (the moon channel). The name means “sun-piercing,” referring to the activation of the solar nāḍī (ida becomes pingala-dominant during inhalation).
Overview
Sūrya Bhedana is one of the classical prāṇāyāma techniques described in the Hatha Yoga Pradīpikā and other foundational texts. It is designed to activate the sympathetic nervous system, generate internal heat, and balance the body’s energy by directing prāṇa through the right nostril, which is associated with the sun (sūrya) and the pingala nāḍī.
Method
The practitioner sits in a comfortable meditative posture and closes the left nostril with the ring finger of the right hand. Inhalation is performed slowly and deeply through the right nostril, followed by retention (kumbhaka) as prescribed. Exhalation is then performed through the left nostril after closing the right nostril with the thumb. The Hatha Yoga Pradīpikā recommends this practice be done after preliminary practices such as nāḍī śodhana.
Benefits and Purpose
Traditional texts claim Sūrya Bhedana:
- Activates the solar energy and generates internal heat (tapas)
- Stimulates the digestive fire (agni)
- Awakens kuṇḍalinī
- Counteracts excess kapha and cold conditions
- Increases vitality and mental alertness
Verification Notes
- Described in the Hatha Yoga Pradīpikā (chapter 2).
- Referenced in the Shiva Saṃhitā and Gheraṇḍa Saṃhitā.
- Audited against Wikipedia (September 2026).