Nadi
In the yogic and tantric worldview, nadis are the subtle energy channels through which life energy (<em>Prana</em>) flows in the body. The Sanskrit word roughly means “tube” or “channel.” Traditionally, thousands of nadis are described, three of which are considered particularly significant: Ida, Pingala, and Sushumna.
What are nadis?
In the yogic and tantric worldview, a delicate network of energy channels—the nadis—pervades the entire human body. The word “nadi” comes from Sanskrit and means “to flow” or “tube.” Just as the circulatory system transports blood throughout the body, nadis, according to this concept, serve as pathways for prana, the universal life energy.
Classical texts such as the Hatha Yoga Pradipika mention up to 72,000 nadis, three of which are considered central:
- Sushumna: The main channel that runs along the spine and is considered the ascending path for the Kundalini energy.
- Ida: Runs to the left of the spine and is associated with the moon, coolness, receptivity, and the parasympathetic nervous system.
- Pingala: Runs to the right of the spine and is associated with the sun, warmth, activity, and the sympathetic nervous system.
Ida and Pingala coil spirally around the Sushumna and cross at the chakra points. In yoga practice—particularly through pranayama, or breathing exercises—the goal is to bring both energy flows into balance so that prana can rise freely through the Sushumna. Those interested in related concepts of energy systems might also want to take a look at Human Design, which is based on similar fundamental assumptions about energy flows within the human body.
Are nadis the same as meridians?
No, but the concepts are similar. Meridians originate in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and describe energy pathways through which qi flows. Nadis come from Indian yoga and tantra and carry prana. Both systems describe a subtle energy network within the body, but differ in their cultural origins and specific details.
What does breathing have to do with the nadis?
Pranayama techniques—especially alternate nostril breathing (Nadi Shodhana)—are specifically used in the yoga tradition to harmonize Ida and Pingala. This involves alternating between breathing through the left and right nostrils, which can be experienced as calming and balancing in practice.