Your energy channels
The Nadis
Our Kundalini yoga classes incorporate various techniques to bring about positive changes in your energetic and subtle body. A crucial aspect of your subtle body is the network of pathways or channels called “nadis”, which facilitate the flow of prana throughout your body. To help you gain a better understanding of these channels, here are 3 main energy channels in your body.
But first, Prana
Prana is another word for your energy, also known as ‘life force energy’ or ‘qi’ in Traditional Chinese Medicine. It distinguishes a living person from a corpse.
As modern science has shown us, there is an energetic or subtle system within us that intertwines with our physical body. The ancient yogic and ayurvedic philosophies, along with traditional Chinese medicine, have long known about this subtle system. There are over 72,000 energy channels that run through your body. Similar to how your veins and arteries carry blood and oxygen around your body, these energy channels carry prana around your body. When your subtle system is unobstructed, the prana is able to travel freely through the energy channels.
The 3 Main Energy Channels
1. "Ida" Nadi
The subtle system that travels on the left side of your body and ends at your left nostril (blue line). It is associated with the feminine or lunar (yin) energy.
2. "Pingala" Nadi
The subtle system that travels on the right side of your body and ends at your right nostril (orange line). It is associated with the masculine or sun (yang) energy.
3. "Sushumna" Nadi
The main central channel that travels up the spine, from the base of the spine up to the crown of your head (yellow line). The ‘chakras’ are main energetic centers or hubs along your Sushumna nadi. When the chakras are unobstructed (‘balanced’), your prana is able to travel freely up and down the spinal column, known to create harmony between your body, mind and spirit.
Unblock your energy channels
The nadis serve as energy channels for your energy to travel throughout your body. Kundalini yoga can clear obstructions in your nadis. Simple practices like breath-work, movements, activating the bandhas and using your voice can create changes in your subtle system.
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