Our body is a constitution of different energies. These energies need a pathway to move around in our bodies. We call these energies prana. The pathways through which these energies move are known as nadis. According to yoga scriptures, there are three-hundred and fifty thousand such nadis inside our body.
Nadi is a Sanskrit term that translates to pathways in the English language. Different energies need specific travel pathways. These energies work synchronized to balance our body’s functions, emotions, and other inner aspects.
Historical Explanation of Ida and Pingala Nadis
As per the historical yogic scriptures, the prana, or air we breathe, travels in our body through various pathways. This prana then uses the nadis to transfer energies to different regions of our body.
Among these three-hundred and fifty thousand pathways or nadis are the three most important nadis. These are Sushumna Nadi, Pingala Nadi and Ida Nadi.

Ida and Pingala Nadis are essential constituents of our nervous system. Apart from these three nadis, there are 7 more nadis that are essential for yogis.
Before understanding the two most important nadis, Pingala and Ida Nadi, we will learn about a few things.
- Our right part of the brain is linked to Ida Nadi
- Our left side of the brain is linked with Pingala Nadi
- The right part of the brain controls breathing through the left nostril
- The left part of the brain controls breathing through the right nostril
- The Ida Nadi represents the moon and night
- The Pingala Nadi represents the sun and day
It is not possible to see the nadis with your eyes. Even if you dissect the body, you cannot see these pathways. Becoming conscious or achieving the ultimate consciousness is the only way to experience every Nadi. Yoga is the pathway to ultimate realisation, learn yoga with our online yoga courses.Â
Read More- Why boredom is good for you: Know How.
In this write-up, we will explain the lunar (moon) and the solar (sun) nadis in detail here.

What are Ida and Pingala Nadi?
Ida Nadi:
Ida Nadi is the energy pathway that originates from the base of the spinal cord on the right side. It passes by the spine and then connects with the left part of the nose. From there, it ends up in our brain’s right part.
Ida Nadi denotes a relaxed state of mind and body. That means we feel more relaxed and comfortable when our ida Nadi dominates the body. This Nadi is related to the subconscious state of mind. This means ida Nadi is activated when we are asleep or in a restful state. Therefore it is known as the lunar Nadi as it is more in power during nighttime.
This Nadi is related to a creative mindset and happiness. Any disruption with your ida nadi can result in a disturbed lifestyle and routine. You feel a lack of energy and are mentally disturbed. Feminine characteristics are related to ida Nadi.
Pingala Nadi:
Pingala Nadi is located on the left side of the body under the belly button area. It passes by the spinal cord and reaches the right part of the nose. Then it connects the right side of the nose to the left part of the brain.
Pingala Nadi is denoted by the sun, which means it is more active during the daytime. It is also related to our conscious mind and our active thinking process. Whatever activities we perform during our day are controlled by the energies of Pingala Nadi.
It is worth noting that interruption with this Nadi can lead to mental disabilities. You may feel lazy throughout the day and develop anxiety and stress. An overactive Pingala Nadi will lead to materialism, dissatisfaction with life, anger, and negativity.
Also Read: Benefits of Super Brain Yoga
Ida Pingala Breathing Explained
Breathing through Ida nadi or left nostril:
Ida nadi is connected to the left nostril. The breath we draw in from our left nostril passes from the left side of the body and reaches the right part of the brain.
It activates and empowers the subconscious part of the brain. Breathing through the left nostril is more activated during the resting phase. Our left nostril is more active when we are asleep or in savasana.
Ida’s breathing cools down the body. Our body adapts more tamasic characteristics, making us feel more relaxed and calm.
Breathing through Pingala nadi or right nostril:
Pingala or solar nadi connects to the right nostril. The energy drawn from Pingala breathing is masculine in nature. The air reaches the left part of our brain.
Pingala breath is responsible for the conscious brain parts. Energy is involved in all activities that we perform actively throughout the day. It is more active during day time or stress and anxiety periods.
Pingala breathing heats the body to make and prepare it for active work. A person with dominating Pingala nadi is rajasic in nature. Practicing pranayama can help cool down your body.
Characteristics of Ida and Pingala Nadi
Ida Nadi | Pingala Nadi |
Creative Thinking | Greater Physical Abilities |
Jolly or Happy | Extrovert |
Calm and Relaxed | Aroused and Hyper Active |
Artistic Approach | Restless |
More Patient | Short Tempered |

How to Balance ida and Pingala?
Now that we understand how ida and Pingala nadi works, it becomes important to understand how to balance them. The major imbalance in the pattern happens when we disturb our biological clocks. Pointing out which nadi is imbalanced is not a tough task. Look at the above-mentioned characteristics and search which are dominant in your body.
Practicing breathing yoga asanas are the key to balancing Ida and Pingala nadi. You should perform Kapalbhati, Matsya asana, and Anulom vilom daily for certain periods. They balance your breathing pattern and bring positive change to your circadian rhythm.Â
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Conclusion
Functions of these Nadi’s are equally important for proper body functioning. The conscious and subconscious parts of our brains have their key roles. The role they play helps us live a balanced life.
Try to maintain a healthy sleep cycle that balances Ida and Pingala nadi. Avoid eating food that brings rajasic characteristics to the body, and add yoga to your routine. Take a few deep breaths to heal your body and create internal harmony whenever possible.