The best way to balance your nerves + focus the mind

During my training in Mysore, just the name of this technique made me want to know more!

“Nadi Shodhana” translates to nerve balancing or nerve cleansing.

It is commonly referred to as alternate nostril breathing, and nadi shodhana is the pranayama practice that I use most often because it is easy to do and has a massively positive impact on my physical, mental and emotional state of being. Quite simply, it restores BALANCE in the mind and body (and you know thats what we are all about here at Strong EnCore!). Studies have shown that people who practice nadi shodhana have stronger channels of communication between the left and right sides of their brain, which is what you need in order to be spontaneously creative and a great problem solver.

I employ this technique before my meditation sessions to bring myself to the start of my practice (I usually do about 10 full breath cycles). I also use it any time I feel frazzled, overwhelmed or stressed out. I personally do not do this practice just before bed because it makes me feel alert and focussed.

The breath is a powerful tool and learning how to use it can be a real game changer in our performance as we go through this game of life.

Few things you need to know when you practice:

- sit comfortably and start by simply bringing your attention to your breath

- the practice begins and ends with the LEFT nostril.

- use your right hand to direct the flow of air entering your nostrils (ideally the thumb and ring finger are used, but you can use the thumb and index finger till you get more comfortable with the exercise)

- you want to do anywhere between 5 to 10 complete breath cycles

- pay attention to the retention of the breath, when you hold both nostrils closed

- as you get more comfortable with the practice, start to time your breath on the 1:2:4 ratio (inhale for 1 count: hold for 2 counts : exhale for 4 counts)

- end the practice with a few regular breaths

According to the Chopra Center,

In addition to calming the mind and reversing stress, alternate nostril breathing also:

• Improves our ability to focus the mind

• Supports our lungs and respiratory functions

• Restores balance in the left and right hemispheres of the brain, and clears the energetic channels

• Rejuvenates the nervous system

• Removes toxins

• Settles stress