Lunar Breath and Heart’s Rhythm: Chandra Nadi Pranayama and HRV in Healthy Young Adults

Abstract

Background
Traditionally, Chandra Nadi Pranayama (CNP), a type of left-nostril breathing, has been thought
to promote parasympathetic activity and have soothing effects. However, there is a lack of
scientific data defining its acute effect on autonomic regulation. Lunar energy is related to cooling
and healing effects on the body and mind in ancient yogic writings that describe left-nostril
breathing. Modern physiology suggests that unilateral nostril breathing may influence cerebral
hemisphere activity and autonomic nervous system function differently on the basis of the nostril
used.