Meditation to Balance Subtle Energy

In yoga you'll often hear teachers refer to 'subtle energy'. The subtle energies of the body are normally not perceivable during everyday activities. There are many methods in yoga to balance the subtle body, and I think the method you choose is entirely up to you. Asana works, so does breath work, meditation, and mudras. Pretty much that is what yoga is all about. 

I have recorded a meditation that uses guided imagery to do what alternate nostril breathing is designed to do. Balance the two primary channels of subtle energy on both sides of the spine known as ida (left side) and pingala (right side). Ida is associated with the feminine/receptive/yin principle, while pingala is associated with the masculine/projective/yang principle. Every human being has both energies in the body, regardless of gender. Finding balance between the two is when we feel most at ease. The central channel that runs through the spine is known as sushumna nadi. When both sides are in balance, energy will flow freely up the center and bring about a feeling of comfort and peace. Sushumna nadi is thought to be the nadi that energizes the chakras along the way and the pathway to enlightenment and higher thinking. 

Throughout the day, one channel is more dominant than the other. They shift back and forth in cycles or to attune to our needs during the day. Early in the morning when you wake up, you can check to see which nostril is more open and will likely find that the left is more open. When you are busy at work during the day, you might find the right nostril more open. This is a reflection of the feminine/masculine principles at work. 

When you are feeling lathargic, anxious, or like you are too far into either of these primary energies you can sit quietly, close your eyes, and practice this guided imagery technique to bring yourself back into balance. Although this practice is simple, it is effective. Energy flows where awareness goes. 

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