सूर्यभेदन

Sūrya Bhedana

Sun piercing

Sources: Haṭha Yoga Pradīpikā 2.48-50 · Gheraṇḍa Saṃhitā 5.58-68

Classical description

The Haṭha Yoga Pradīpikā (2.48-50) describes:

“The yogī should slowly inhale through the right nostril (piṅgalā, the solar channel). After retaining the breath with maximum effort, one should exhale slowly through the left nostril (iḍā).”

“This excellent prāṇāyāma should be practiced repeatedly. It purifies the brain (the frontal sinuses), destroys the disorders of vāta, and eliminates diseases caused by parasites.”

Technique

  1. Sit in a stable meditative posture
  2. Left hand in jñāna or chin mudrā on the knee
  3. Right hand in nāsāgra mudrā (viṣṇu mudrā):
    • Index and middle fingers bent toward the palm
    • Thumb to close the right nostril
    • Ring and little fingers to close the left nostril
  4. Close the left nostril with ring/little finger
  5. Inhale slowly and deeply through the right nostril
  6. Close both nostrils, apply jālandhara and mūla bandha
  7. Retain according to capacity (without forcing)
  8. Release the bandhas, exhale slowly through the left nostril
  9. This is one cycle. Continue always inhaling through the right

Effects according to the texts

The HYP specifies:

  • Kapāla-śodhana — purifies the skull/sinuses
  • Vāta-doṣa-ghna — destroys disorders of vāta
  • Kṛmi-doṣa-ghna — eliminates parasitic diseases

The technique heats the body by activating the solar channel (piṅgalā). Effects:

  • Increases body heat
  • Stimulates metabolism
  • Activates energy, reduces lethargy
  • Purifies the nervous system

Notes

Sūrya (sun) represents piṅgalā nāḍī, the right channel associated with heat, activity and masculine energy. Bhedana means to pierce or penetrate. This technique “pierces” or activates the solar energy. Should be avoided in conditions of excess heat (fever, inflammation) and in intense summer. Best practiced in the morning.