Difference between revisions of "Nadis"
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omposition and Structure | omposition and Structure | ||
− | The [[word]] [[nadi]] is derived from [[Sanskrit]] nad meaning hollow stalk, [[sound]] vibration and resonance. [[Nadis]] are tubular {{Wiki|organs}} of the [[subtle body]] through which [[energy]] flows. [[Nadis]] are ducts, channels which carry [[air]], [[water]], {{Wiki|blood}}, nutrients and other {{Wiki|substances}} throughout the [[body]]. They are our arteries, bronchioles, veins, capillaries and so on. In our so called {{Wiki|subtle}} and [[spiritual]] [[bodies]], which cannot be weighed or measured, they [[channel]] [[cosmic]], [[vital]], seminal and other energies as well as [[sensations]], [[consciousness]] and [[spiritual]] [[Wikipedia:aura (paranormal)|aura]]. Map of [[nadis]] From the [[Atma]] dwelling in the [[heart]], and the size of a thumb, radiate 101 [[nadis]]. From each of these 101 [[nadis]] [[emanate]] 100 subtler [[nadis]], each of which branches off into another 72,000. | + | The [[word]] [[nadi]] is derived from [[Sanskrit]] nad meaning hollow stalk, [[sound]] vibration and resonance. [[Nadis]] are tubular {{Wiki|organs}} of the [[subtle body]] through which [[energy]] flows. [[Nadis]] are ducts, [[channels]] which carry [[air]], [[water]], {{Wiki|blood}}, nutrients and other {{Wiki|substances}} throughout the [[body]]. They are our arteries, bronchioles, veins, capillaries and so on. In our so called {{Wiki|subtle}} and [[spiritual]] [[bodies]], which cannot be weighed or measured, they [[channel]] [[cosmic]], [[vital]], seminal and other energies as well as [[sensations]], [[consciousness]] and [[spiritual]] [[Wikipedia:aura (paranormal)|aura]]. Map of [[nadis]] From the [[Atma]] dwelling in the [[heart]], and the size of a thumb, radiate 101 [[nadis]]. From each of these 101 [[nadis]] [[emanate]] 100 subtler [[nadis]], each of which branches off into another 72,000. |
− | They are called different names according to their functions. Nadikas are small [[nadis]] and nadichakras are {{Wiki|ganglia}} or plexuses in all [[three bodies]]. | + | They are called different names according to their functions. [[Nadikas]] are small [[nadis]] and [[nadichakras]] are {{Wiki|ganglia}} or plexuses in all [[three bodies]]. |
It is said in the Varahopanisad that the [[nadis]] penetrate the [[body]] from the soles of the feet to the {{Wiki|crown}} of the head. In them is [[prana]], the [[breath]] of [[life]], and in that [[life]] abides [[Atma]], which is the abode of [[Shakti]], creatrix of the animate and [[inanimate]] [[worlds]]. | It is said in the Varahopanisad that the [[nadis]] penetrate the [[body]] from the soles of the feet to the {{Wiki|crown}} of the head. In them is [[prana]], the [[breath]] of [[life]], and in that [[life]] abides [[Atma]], which is the abode of [[Shakti]], creatrix of the animate and [[inanimate]] [[worlds]]. | ||
− | All [[nadis]] originate from one of two centres; the Kandasthana - a little below the [[navel]], and the [[Heart]]. Though [[yoga]] texts agree about their starting points, they vary about where some of them end. | + | All [[nadis]] originate from one of two centres; the [[Kandasthana]] - a little below the [[navel]], and the [[Heart]]. Though [[yoga]] texts agree about their starting points, they vary about where some of them end. |
− | Twelve digits above the anus and the genital {{Wiki|organs}} and just below the [[navel]], there is an egg-shaped bulb called the kanda. From it 72,000 [[nadis]] are said to be spread throughout the [[body]], each branching off into another 72,000. They move in every [[direction]] and have countless outlets and functions. | + | Twelve digits above the anus and the genital {{Wiki|organs}} and just below the [[navel]], there is an egg-shaped bulb called the [[kanda]]. From it 72,000 [[nadis]] are said to be spread throughout the [[body]], each branching off into another 72,000. They move in every [[direction]] and have countless outlets and functions. |
− | The {{Wiki|Siva}} Samhita mentions 350,000 [[nadis]] of which 14 are stated to be important. The three most [[vital]] are [[Sushumna]], Ida, Pingala.8 | + | The {{Wiki|Siva}} [[Samhita]] mentions 350,000 [[nadis]] of which 14 are stated to be important. The three most [[vital]] are [[Sushumna]], [[Ida]], [[Pingala]].8 |
Your [[Subtle Energy]] System | Your [[Subtle Energy]] System | ||
A slightly different angle:- | A slightly different angle:- | ||
− | Pranic [[energy]] flows throughout your pranic sheath via fixed pathways, called [[nadis]] (conduit, [[channel]] or artery), derived from the [[Sanskrit]] [[root]] [[nada]] or [[nala]] (motion.) So [[nadi]] is [[energy]] in motion. At various focal points within your pranic [[body]], networks of [[nadis]] intersect to [[form]] [[chakras]] (plexuses of [[subtle energy]] centres. | + | [[Pranic]] [[energy]] flows throughout your pranic sheath via fixed pathways, called [[nadis]] (conduit, [[channel]] or artery), derived from the [[Sanskrit]] [[root]] [[nada]] or [[nala]] (motion.) So [[nadi]] is [[energy]] in motion. At various focal points within your pranic [[body]], networks of [[nadis]] intersect to [[form]] [[chakras]] (plexuses of [[subtle energy]] centres. |
− | As wireless mediums, the [[subtle energy]] tubes ([[nadis]]) are not [[physical]] nerves or arteries, and the vortexes ([[chakras]]) are not [[physical]] {{Wiki|nerve}} plexuses. If you dissected a corpse, you would not locate one [[nadi]] or [[chakra]] anywhere, because they are composed of non-physical [[substance]]. In fact, even under an {{Wiki|electron}} microscope they are undetectable. Yet these [[subtle energy]] tubes and centres give the very [[breath]] of [[life]] to your [[body]]. Without them, your [[heart]] would not beat and lungs would not move. Because they are not readily discernable for [[scientific]] [[investigation]], their [[existence]] is rejected by {{Wiki|Western}} [[medicine]]. However, the [[nadi]] system is the [[essence]] of {{Wiki|Chinese}} {{Wiki|acupuncture}} and [[Ayurvedic | + | As wireless mediums, the [[subtle energy]] tubes ([[nadis]]) are not [[physical]] nerves or arteries, and the vortexes ([[chakras]]) are not [[physical]] {{Wiki|nerve}} plexuses. If you dissected a corpse, you would not locate one [[nadi]] or [[chakra]] anywhere, because they are composed of non-physical [[substance]]. In fact, even under an {{Wiki|electron}} microscope they are undetectable. Yet these [[subtle energy]] tubes and centres give the very [[breath]] of [[life]] to your [[body]]. Without them, your [[heart]] would not beat and lungs would not move. Because they are not readily discernable for [[scientific]] [[investigation]], their [[existence]] is rejected by {{Wiki|Western}} [[medicine]]. However, the [[nadi]] system is the [[essence]] of {{Wiki|Chinese}} {{Wiki|acupuncture}} and [[Ayurvedic medicine]]. |
Why are [[nadis]] and [[chakras]] discounted as [[myth]]? Consider a man who never saw a radio or television. If you told him these instruments could pick up signals originating many {{Wiki|miles}} away, he would laugh at you. No wire transmits the signal, yet {{Wiki|invisible}} {{Wiki|electromagnetic}} waves carry it. | Why are [[nadis]] and [[chakras]] discounted as [[myth]]? Consider a man who never saw a radio or television. If you told him these instruments could pick up signals originating many {{Wiki|miles}} away, he would laugh at you. No wire transmits the signal, yet {{Wiki|invisible}} {{Wiki|electromagnetic}} waves carry it. | ||
Similarly, your [[body]] is akin to a radio that receives pranic [[energy]]. A healthy [[body]] receives these [[energy]] waves as a clear, well-tuned radio. An [[unhealthy]] [[body]] is an old dilapidated radio that distorts the signal.4 | Similarly, your [[body]] is akin to a radio that receives pranic [[energy]]. A healthy [[body]] receives these [[energy]] waves as a clear, well-tuned radio. An [[unhealthy]] [[body]] is an old dilapidated radio that distorts the signal.4 | ||
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3. [[Samana]] (on-breathing) is horizontal motion. Seated in the [[navel]] ([[manipura chakra]]), it maintains digestive [[fire]] and regulates {{Wiki|stomach}}, liver, pancreas and intestine. its [[realm]] of [[activity]] extends from the [[heart]] to the [[navel]]. [[Samana]] carries the grosser product of [[food]] to [[Apana]] for excretion, and brings the subtler material to the extremities. The [[word]] [[samana]] means "equaliser". | 3. [[Samana]] (on-breathing) is horizontal motion. Seated in the [[navel]] ([[manipura chakra]]), it maintains digestive [[fire]] and regulates {{Wiki|stomach}}, liver, pancreas and intestine. its [[realm]] of [[activity]] extends from the [[heart]] to the [[navel]]. [[Samana]] carries the grosser product of [[food]] to [[Apana]] for excretion, and brings the subtler material to the extremities. The [[word]] [[samana]] means "equaliser". | ||
The {{Wiki|ancient}} [[scripture]] [[Yoga Sutras]] says "By conquering the [[vital]] force called [[Samana]], effulgence is acquired." By developing [[Samana]] [[Vayu]] (current, impulse, [[vital]] [[air]]), all parts of your [[body]] are properly nourished, and the [[energy]] supplied by [[food]] is evenly distributed. By controlling [[Samana]], you gain {{Wiki|charisma}} and a powerful [[Wikipedia:aura (paranormal)|aura]]. It is said in the [[scriptures]] that "seven lights" proceed from [[Samana]]. | The {{Wiki|ancient}} [[scripture]] [[Yoga Sutras]] says "By conquering the [[vital]] force called [[Samana]], effulgence is acquired." By developing [[Samana]] [[Vayu]] (current, impulse, [[vital]] [[air]]), all parts of your [[body]] are properly nourished, and the [[energy]] supplied by [[food]] is evenly distributed. By controlling [[Samana]], you gain {{Wiki|charisma}} and a powerful [[Wikipedia:aura (paranormal)|aura]]. It is said in the [[scriptures]] that "seven lights" proceed from [[Samana]]. | ||
− | 4. [[Udana]] (out-breathing) is upward and outward motion. Seated in the {{Wiki|throat}} above the larynx ( | + | 4. [[Udana]] (out-breathing) is upward and outward motion. Seated in the {{Wiki|throat}} above the larynx ([[vishudda chakra]]), it regulates falling asleep, controls all automatic functions in the head and maintains [[body]] heat. [[Udana]] is responsible for [[speech]], {{Wiki|music}} and humming. At the [[time]] of [[death]] [[Udana]] separates the [[astral body]] from the [[physical body]]. By controlling [[Udana]], [[levitation]] can occur. [[Udana]] is responsible for "[[kundalini]]" [[rising up]] your spine. |
5. [[Vyana]] (back-breathing) is circular motion, a combination of [[Prana]] and [[Apana]], by which these two are held. All- pervading and moving through all the [[nadis]], it controls the circulatory, lymphatic and nervous systems, directs voluntary and invountary movements of muscles, joints, [[tendons]] and fascia, and keeps the [[body]] upright through [[unconscious]] reflexes. [[Vyana]] is responsible for {{Wiki|blood}} flow and {{Wiki|lymph}} detoxification, sweating and coordination of all systems. The [[word]] [[Vyana]] means "pervading one".4 | 5. [[Vyana]] (back-breathing) is circular motion, a combination of [[Prana]] and [[Apana]], by which these two are held. All- pervading and moving through all the [[nadis]], it controls the circulatory, lymphatic and nervous systems, directs voluntary and invountary movements of muscles, joints, [[tendons]] and fascia, and keeps the [[body]] upright through [[unconscious]] reflexes. [[Vyana]] is responsible for {{Wiki|blood}} flow and {{Wiki|lymph}} detoxification, sweating and coordination of all systems. The [[word]] [[Vyana]] means "pervading one".4 | ||
Some [[nadis]] | Some [[nadis]] | ||
− | Alambusa - Connects the {{Wiki|mouth}} and anus. | + | [[Alambusa]] - Connects the {{Wiki|mouth}} and anus. |
[[Chandra]] - (see Ida) | [[Chandra]] - (see Ida) | ||
− | Chitra - One of the [[nadis]] [[emanating]] from the [[heart]] through which the creative [[energy]] ([[Shakti]]) of [[Kundalini]] passes to reach the [[Sahasrara]] ({{Wiki|crown}}). | + | [[Chitra]] - One of the [[nadis]] [[emanating]] from the [[heart]] through which the creative [[energy]] ([[Shakti]]) of [[Kundalini]] passes to reach the [[Sahasrara]] ({{Wiki|crown}}). |
− | [Of the 101 [[nadis]], only the Chitra splits into two parts at the [[root]] of the [[Sushumna]].] One part of the Chitra moves within it, extending upwards to the aperture of ( | + | [Of the 101 [[nadis]], only the [[Chitra]] splits into two parts at the [[root]] of the [[Sushumna]].] One part of the [[Chitra]] moves within it, extending upwards to the aperture of (pprandhra[[) of [[Brahma]] at the {{Wiki|crown}} of the head above the [[Sahasrara chakra]]. this is the gateway to the Supreme [[Spirit]] ([[Parabrahman]]). The other part of [[Chitra]] moves down to the generative {{Wiki|organ}} for [[discharge]] of semen. It is said that at the [[time]] of [[death]], [[yogis]] and [[saints]] [[consciously]] leave through the brahmarandhra. Since the aperture is in the [[spiritual]] or [[causal body]] ([[karana sarira]]) it cannot be seen or measured. When the [[prana]] rises upwards, via the [[Chitra]], through the [[chakras]], it takes with it the radiance (ojas), a creative [[energy]] latent in semen. The [[Chitra]] is [[transformed]] into the [[Brahma]] [[nadi]] or Para (supreme) [[nadi]]. |
{{Wiki|Gandhari}} - One of the [[nadis]] said to be behind the Ida [[nadi]], terminating near the left [[eye]], regulating the [[function]] of [[sight]]. | {{Wiki|Gandhari}} - One of the [[nadis]] said to be behind the Ida [[nadi]], terminating near the left [[eye]], regulating the [[function]] of [[sight]]. | ||
− | Hastijihva - located in front of the Ida [[nadi]], terminating near the right [[eye]], regulating the [[function]] of [[sight]], [[seeing]]. | + | [[Hastijihva]] - located in front of the Ida [[nadi]], terminating near the right [[eye]], regulating the [[function]] of [[sight]], [[seeing]]. |
− | Ida - starting from the left nostril, moving to the {{Wiki|crown}} of the head and descending to the base of the spine. In its course it conveys {{Wiki|lunar}} [[energy]] and is therefore called [[Chandra]] [[nadi]]. Its [[function]] is cooling ([[tamas]]), {{Wiki|inertia}}. | + | [[Ida]] - starting from the left nostril, moving to the {{Wiki|crown}} of the head and descending to the base of the spine. In its course it conveys {{Wiki|lunar}} [[energy]] and is therefore called [[Chandra]] [[nadi]]. Its [[function]] is cooling ([[tamas]]), {{Wiki|inertia}}. |
− | Kausiki - One of the [[nadis]] terminating at the big toes. | + | [[Kausiki]] - One of the [[nadis]] terminating at the big toes. |
− | Kuhu - One of the [[nadis]] said to be located in front of the Susumna, its [[function]] is to evacuate faeces. | + | [[Kuhu]] - One of the [[nadis]] said to be located in front of the [[Susumna]], its [[function]] is to evacuate faeces. |
− | Kurma - subsidiary [[nadi]] whose [[function]] is to stabilise the [[body]] and the [[mind]]. | + | [[Kurma]] - subsidiary [[nadi]] whose [[function]] is to stabilise the [[body]] and the [[mind]]. |
− | Payaswini - One of the [[nadis]] terminating at the right big toe, said to be located between the pusa (which is behind the [[pingala]] [[nadi]] and the [[Sarasvati]] (behind Susumna). | + | [[Payaswini] - One of the [[nadis]] terminating at the right big toe, said to be located between the pusa (which is behind the [[pingala]] [[nadi]] and the [[Sarasvati]] (behind Susumna). |
[[Pingala]] - (= tawny or reddish) starting at the right nostril moving to the {{Wiki|crown}} and down the spine to the base. As the {{Wiki|solar}} [[energy]] flows through it, it is also called [[Surya]] [[nadi]]. Its [[function]] is burning ([[rajas]]), [[action]]. | [[Pingala]] - (= tawny or reddish) starting at the right nostril moving to the {{Wiki|crown}} and down the spine to the base. As the {{Wiki|solar}} [[energy]] flows through it, it is also called [[Surya]] [[nadi]]. Its [[function]] is burning ([[rajas]]), [[action]]. | ||
− | Pusa - [[nadi]] situated behind [[Pingala]], terminating at the right {{Wiki|ear}}. [[Function]] is hearing. | + | [[Pusa]] - [[nadi]] situated behind [[Pingala]], terminating at the right {{Wiki|ear}}. [[Function]] is hearing. |
− | Raka - [[nadi]] creates hunger and [[thirst]] and collects mucus at the sinuses. | + | [[Raka]] - [[nadi]] creates hunger and [[thirst]] and collects mucus at the sinuses. |
− | Samkhini - terminates at the genital {{Wiki|organs}}, is situated between {{Wiki|Gandhari}} and [[Sarasvati]]. It carries the [[essence]] of [[food]]. | + | [[Samkhini]] - terminates at the genital {{Wiki|organs}}, is situated between {{Wiki|Gandhari}} and [[Sarasvati]]. It carries the [[essence]] of [[food]]. |
− | [[Sarasvati]] - [[nadi]] which is behind Susumna [[nadi]], terminating at the {{Wiki|tongue}}, controlling [[speech]] and keeping the abdominal {{Wiki|organs}} free from {{Wiki|disease}}. | + | [[Sarasvati]] - [[nadi]] which is behind [[Susumna]] [[nadi]], terminating at the {{Wiki|tongue}}, controlling [[speech]] and keeping the abdominal {{Wiki|organs}} free from {{Wiki|disease}}. |
− | [[Soma]] - see Ida. | + | [[Soma]] - see [[Ida]]. |
[[Subha]] - | [[Subha]] - | ||
[[Sura]] - [[nadi]] which is between the eyebrows. | [[Sura]] - [[nadi]] which is between the eyebrows. | ||
[[Surya]] - the [[nadi]] of the {{Wiki|Sun}}, see [[Pingala]]. | [[Surya]] - the [[nadi]] of the {{Wiki|Sun}}, see [[Pingala]]. | ||
− | Susumna - from the base of the spine to the {{Wiki|crown}} of the head, up the centre of the spine. Its [[function]] is [[Agni]], [[Fire]] ([[sattva]]), [[illumination]]. | + | [[Susumna]] - from the base of the spine to the {{Wiki|crown}} of the head, up the centre of the spine. Its [[function]] is [[Agni]], [[Fire]] ([[sattva]]), [[illumination]]. |
− | Varuni - [[nadi]] which flows throughout the [[body]]. Its [[function]] is the evacuation of {{Wiki|urine}}. Its position is between Yasasvini - and Kuhu. | + | Varuni - [[nadi]] which flows throughout the [[body]]. Its [[function]] is the evacuation of {{Wiki|urine}}. Its position is between [[Yasasvini]] - and [[Kuhu]]. |
[[Vijnana]] - [[nadis]] are vessels of [[consciousness]]. | [[Vijnana]] - [[nadis]] are vessels of [[consciousness]]. | ||
− | Visvodhari - [[nadi]] having the [[function]] of [[absorption]] of [[food]]. Its position is between | + | Visvodhari - [[nadi]] having the [[function]] of [[absorption]] of [[food]]. Its position is between [[Hastijivha]] and [[Kuhu]]. |
− | Yasasvini - [[nadi]]. (before [[Pingala]], between {{Wiki|Gandhari}} and [[Sarasvati]] situated between the left {{Wiki|ear}} and the left big toe. NB. In addition to the various primary and minor [[nadis]], the [[Shakta]] [[Tantra]] and Kundalini/Laya [[Yoga]] [[traditions]]' emphasis was placed on the central [[nadis]] which represented concentric (hence increasingly {{Wiki|subtle}}) channels along or in front of the spine, and along which are strung the 7 [[chakras]]. These 4 'central' [[nadis]] are; | + | Yasasvini - [[nadi]]. (before [[Pingala]], between {{Wiki|Gandhari}} and [[Sarasvati]] situated between the left {{Wiki|ear}} and the left big toe. NB. In addition to the various primary and minor [[nadis]], the [[Shakta]] [[Tantra]] and [[Kundalini]]/Laya [[Yoga]] [[traditions]]' emphasis was placed on the central [[nadis]] which represented concentric (hence increasingly {{Wiki|subtle}}) channels along or in front of the spine, and along which are strung the 7 [[chakras]]. These 4 'central' [[nadis]] are; |
− | Susumna-nadi - starts from the Kanda-mula, lying just below the Mulhadara [[chakra]] and goes upward centrally within the vertebral column. | + | [[Susumna-nadi]] - starts from the Kanda-mula, lying just below the Mulhadara [[chakra]] and goes upward centrally within the vertebral column. |
− | Vajra-nadi - starts from the starting point of Susumna and goes upwards, lying within Susumna. | + | [[Vajra-nadi]] - starts from the starting point of [[Susumna]] and goes upwards, lying within [[Susumna]]. |
− | Chitrini-nadi - starts at the starting point of the [[Vajra]] [[nadi]] and goes upward, lying within the [[Vajra | + | [[Chitrini-nadi]] - starts at the starting point of the [[Vajra]] [[nadi]] and goes upward, lying within the [[Vajra nadi]]. |
− | Brahma-nadi or Brahmarandra-nadi - starts from the orifice of Swayambhu-linga in the [[Muladhara | + | [[Brahma-nadi]] or [[Brahmarandra-nadi]] - starts from the orifice of[[ Swayambhu-linga]] in the [[Muladhara chakra]] and goes upwards, lying within Chitrini - . |
− | The [[chakras]] are actually said to be strung along the fine Chitrini [[nadi]], rather than the Susumna as is commonly stated in the West.8 | + | The [[chakras]] are actually said to be strung along the fine Chitrini [[nadi]], rather than the [[Susumna]] as is commonly stated in the West.8 |
</poem> | </poem> | ||
{{R}} | {{R}} | ||
[http://www.subtleanatomy.com/Nadis.htm www.subtleanatomy.com] | [http://www.subtleanatomy.com/Nadis.htm www.subtleanatomy.com] | ||
[[Category:Chakras]] | [[Category:Chakras]] |
Revision as of 01:16, 31 January 2014
omposition and Structure
The word nadi is derived from Sanskrit nad meaning hollow stalk, sound vibration and resonance. Nadis are tubular organs of the subtle body through which energy flows. Nadis are ducts, channels which carry air, water, blood, nutrients and other substances throughout the body. They are our arteries, bronchioles, veins, capillaries and so on. In our so called subtle and spiritual bodies, which cannot be weighed or measured, they channel cosmic, vital, seminal and other energies as well as sensations, consciousness and spiritual aura. Map of nadis From the Atma dwelling in the heart, and the size of a thumb, radiate 101 nadis. From each of these 101 nadis emanate 100 subtler nadis, each of which branches off into another 72,000.
They are called different names according to their functions. Nadikas are small nadis and nadichakras are ganglia or plexuses in all three bodies.
It is said in the Varahopanisad that the nadis penetrate the body from the soles of the feet to the crown of the head. In them is prana, the breath of life, and in that life abides Atma, which is the abode of Shakti, creatrix of the animate and inanimate worlds.
All nadis originate from one of two centres; the Kandasthana - a little below the navel, and the Heart. Though yoga texts agree about their starting points, they vary about where some of them end.
Twelve digits above the anus and the genital organs and just below the navel, there is an egg-shaped bulb called the kanda. From it 72,000 nadis are said to be spread throughout the body, each branching off into another 72,000. They move in every direction and have countless outlets and functions.
The Siva Samhita mentions 350,000 nadis of which 14 are stated to be important. The three most vital are Sushumna, Ida, Pingala.8
Your Subtle Energy System
A slightly different angle:-
Pranic energy flows throughout your pranic sheath via fixed pathways, called nadis (conduit, channel or artery), derived from the Sanskrit root nada or nala (motion.) So nadi is energy in motion. At various focal points within your pranic body, networks of nadis intersect to form chakras (plexuses of subtle energy centres.
As wireless mediums, the subtle energy tubes (nadis) are not physical nerves or arteries, and the vortexes (chakras) are not physical nerve plexuses. If you dissected a corpse, you would not locate one nadi or chakra anywhere, because they are composed of non-physical substance. In fact, even under an electron microscope they are undetectable. Yet these subtle energy tubes and centres give the very breath of life to your body. Without them, your heart would not beat and lungs would not move. Because they are not readily discernable for scientific investigation, their existence is rejected by Western medicine. However, the nadi system is the essence of Chinese acupuncture and Ayurvedic medicine.
Why are nadis and chakras discounted as myth? Consider a man who never saw a radio or television. If you told him these instruments could pick up signals originating many miles away, he would laugh at you. No wire transmits the signal, yet invisible electromagnetic waves carry it.
Similarly, your body is akin to a radio that receives pranic energy. A healthy body receives these energy waves as a clear, well-tuned radio. An unhealthy body is an old dilapidated radio that distorts the signal.4
The Five Pranas
Prana, in its capacity of the life force in breath, takes five separate forms. These five vital forces (pancha prana) breathe life into your body:
1. Prana (up-breathing) is inward and downward motion. Seated in the heart (anahata chakra), it governs respiration, swallowing, and movements of the gullet. Prana resides in the eyes and ears, operates in the heart and lungs, and moves in and out of your nose.
2. Apana (down-breathing) is downward and outward motion. Seated in the anus (muladhara chakra) it governs excretion and the kidneys, bladder, genitals, colon and rectum. It is responsible for flatulence, ejaculation, conception, childbirth, defecation and urination. It regulates the sense of smell, makes the body stable, and its range of influence is from the navel to the rectum.
3. Samana (on-breathing) is horizontal motion. Seated in the navel (manipura chakra), it maintains digestive fire and regulates stomach, liver, pancreas and intestine. its realm of activity extends from the heart to the navel. Samana carries the grosser product of food to Apana for excretion, and brings the subtler material to the extremities. The word samana means "equaliser".
The ancient scripture Yoga Sutras says "By conquering the vital force called Samana, effulgence is acquired." By developing Samana Vayu (current, impulse, vital air), all parts of your body are properly nourished, and the energy supplied by food is evenly distributed. By controlling Samana, you gain charisma and a powerful aura. It is said in the scriptures that "seven lights" proceed from Samana.
4. Udana (out-breathing) is upward and outward motion. Seated in the throat above the larynx (vishudda chakra), it regulates falling asleep, controls all automatic functions in the head and maintains body heat. Udana is responsible for speech, music and humming. At the time of death Udana separates the astral body from the physical body. By controlling Udana, levitation can occur. Udana is responsible for "kundalini" rising up your spine.
5. Vyana (back-breathing) is circular motion, a combination of Prana and Apana, by which these two are held. All- pervading and moving through all the nadis, it controls the circulatory, lymphatic and nervous systems, directs voluntary and invountary movements of muscles, joints, tendons and fascia, and keeps the body upright through unconscious reflexes. Vyana is responsible for blood flow and lymph detoxification, sweating and coordination of all systems. The word Vyana means "pervading one".4
Some nadis
Alambusa - Connects the mouth and anus.
Chandra - (see Ida)
Chitra - One of the nadis emanating from the heart through which the creative energy (Shakti) of Kundalini passes to reach the Sahasrara (crown).
[Of the 101 nadis, only the Chitra splits into two parts at the root of the Sushumna.] One part of the Chitra moves within it, extending upwards to the aperture of (pprandhra[[) of Brahma at the crown of the head above the Sahasrara chakra. this is the gateway to the Supreme Spirit (Parabrahman). The other part of Chitra moves down to the generative organ for discharge of semen. It is said that at the time of death, yogis and saints consciously leave through the brahmarandhra. Since the aperture is in the spiritual or causal body (karana sarira) it cannot be seen or measured. When the prana rises upwards, via the Chitra, through the chakras, it takes with it the radiance (ojas), a creative energy latent in semen. The Chitra is transformed into the Brahma nadi or Para (supreme) nadi.
Gandhari - One of the nadis said to be behind the Ida nadi, terminating near the left eye, regulating the function of sight.
Hastijihva - located in front of the Ida nadi, terminating near the right eye, regulating the function of sight, seeing.
Ida - starting from the left nostril, moving to the crown of the head and descending to the base of the spine. In its course it conveys lunar energy and is therefore called Chandra nadi. Its function is cooling (tamas), inertia.
Kausiki - One of the nadis terminating at the big toes.
Kuhu - One of the nadis said to be located in front of the Susumna, its function is to evacuate faeces.
Kurma - subsidiary nadi whose function is to stabilise the body and the mind.
[[Payaswini] - One of the nadis terminating at the right big toe, said to be located between the pusa (which is behind the pingala nadi and the Sarasvati (behind Susumna).
Pingala - (= tawny or reddish) starting at the right nostril moving to the crown and down the spine to the base. As the solar energy flows through it, it is also called Surya nadi. Its function is burning (rajas), action.
Pusa - nadi situated behind Pingala, terminating at the right ear. Function is hearing.
Raka - nadi creates hunger and thirst and collects mucus at the sinuses.
Samkhini - terminates at the genital organs, is situated between Gandhari and Sarasvati. It carries the essence of food.
Sarasvati - nadi which is behind Susumna nadi, terminating at the tongue, controlling speech and keeping the abdominal organs free from disease.
Soma - see Ida.
Subha -
Sura - nadi which is between the eyebrows.
Surya - the nadi of the Sun, see Pingala.
Susumna - from the base of the spine to the crown of the head, up the centre of the spine. Its function is Agni, Fire (sattva), illumination.
Varuni - nadi which flows throughout the body. Its function is the evacuation of urine. Its position is between Yasasvini - and Kuhu.
Vijnana - nadis are vessels of consciousness.
Visvodhari - nadi having the function of absorption of food. Its position is between Hastijivha and Kuhu.
Yasasvini - nadi. (before Pingala, between Gandhari and Sarasvati situated between the left ear and the left big toe. NB. In addition to the various primary and minor nadis, the Shakta Tantra and Kundalini/Laya Yoga traditions' emphasis was placed on the central nadis which represented concentric (hence increasingly subtle) channels along or in front of the spine, and along which are strung the 7 chakras. These 4 'central' nadis are;
Susumna-nadi - starts from the Kanda-mula, lying just below the Mulhadara chakra and goes upward centrally within the vertebral column.
Vajra-nadi - starts from the starting point of Susumna and goes upwards, lying within Susumna.
Chitrini-nadi - starts at the starting point of the Vajra nadi and goes upward, lying within the Vajra nadi.
Brahma-nadi or Brahmarandra-nadi - starts from the orifice ofSwayambhu-linga in the Muladhara chakra and goes upwards, lying within Chitrini - .
The chakras are actually said to be strung along the fine Chitrini nadi, rather than the Susumna as is commonly stated in the West.8