Pingala

The energy channel (nāḍī) that runs to the right of suṣumṇā, associated with the sun, heating, and active/masculine energy.

Characteristics:

• Terminates at the right nostril
• Active during right nostril breathing
• Related to the left cerebral hemisphere
• Qualities: activity, analysis, action
• Element: fire
• Color: red/golden

When piṅgalā dominates, the mind is oriented toward action and the external world. Sūrya Bhedana prāṇāyāma specifically activates this channel to increase heat and energy.