Psychic alternate nasal breathing practice

Psychic alternate nostril breathing is a meditation technique that uses imagination and mental focus to simulate the process of breathing alternately through each nostril.

This practice, although simple in its conception, can be an effective tool for developing concentration and body awareness.

Fundamentals of the Technique

This form of meditation is based on the traditional yogic practice of alternate nasal breathing (Nadi Shodhana), where a finger is physically used to close one nostril while inhaling or exhaling through the other.

However, in the "psychic" or mental version, the physical aid of the fingers is not used.

Instead, concentration and visualization are used to mentally direct the flow of air through one nostril at a time.

Psychic Alternate Nasal Breathing Process

The exercise begins by adopting a comfortable posture, similar to other meditation practices. The basic cycle consists of:

• Imagine inhaling air only through the left nostril, feeling how the air enters through that side.

• Then, imagine exhaling air only through the right nostril.

• The process is then reversed, inhaling through the right nostril.

• Finally, exhale through the left nostril, completing one cycle.

This cycle is repeated several times, keeping the attention focused on the imagined sensation of air flowing alternately through each nostril.

Although at first it may seem that air still enters through both nostrils, with practice and concentration, you may come to experience a vivid sensation that the airflow is actually directed in the manner imagined.

Benefits and Purpose

The main benefit of this technique is the development of the ability to focus and concentrate.

By directing the mind to a task as subtle as imagining the flow of air through a single nostril, attention is trained and mental dispersion is reduced.

In addition, this practice can induce a state of calm and balance.

Concentration on the breath, even in this imagined form, has a calming effect on the nervous system.

Even if no nostrils are physically closed, the mental sensation of directing air can influence the perception of the quality of oxygen being inhaled, contributing to a greater sense of focus.

Like any mindfulness exercise, the goal is to cultivate awareness of the present moment.

Whenever the mind is distracted, it is gently brought back to the psychic alternate nasal breathing practice, thus strengthening the ability to be present and focused.