Inhaling and exhaling air through the nostrils is considered the optimal and
healthy way to breathe.
The NOSE adapts the inhaled air to the conditions in the lungs: it filters,
moisturizes and warms the incoming air to body temperature. The nasal
passages are lined with tiny hairs called cilia and mucus-producing cells
that help trap and filter out dust, allergens, and harmful particles present in
the air. The moist mucous membranes in the nose help add moisture and
warmth to the air. This process is essential for optimal lung function and
prevents excessive dryness or irritation of the respiratory tract.
Also,the PARANASAL SINUSES produce large amounts of NITRIC OXIDE
(NO), a gas that plays a vital role in enhancing oxygen absorption, known also
to be broadly antifungal, antiviral and antibacterial. During nasal breathing
NICTRIC OXIDE is carried into the lungs It dilates blood vessels, increases
circulation and lowers heart rate.
Furthermore, nose breathing synergistically activates the diaphragm, and
slows down the heart rate.
The nose breathings allows also the sense SMELL. Breathing naturally oscillates
between the dominant left and right nostrils. One nostril is being more
decongested, while there is a slight concha swelling in the other one. The
sides change spontaneously after few hours. THE NASAL CYCLE broadens
the olfactory perception. Some smells are better perceived by fast-moving
air through the decongested nostril, while others are better sensed by
slow-moving air through the congested nostril. Each nostril transmits a slightly different olfactory picture to the brain.
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In Eastern traditions, such as Buddhism and yogic practices like pranayama, the left and right nostrils hold symbolic and physiological significance. According to pranayama , the left nostril is connected to the lunar energy, referred to as “ida”, while the right nostril is associated with solar energy, known as “pingala.” These two energy channels are believed to represent the yin and yang aspects of our being, with ida representing the feminine, cooling, and calming energy, and pingala representing the masculine, heating, and energizing energy.
By alternating the breath between the left and right nostrils, pranayama aims to balance the flow of energy in the body. It is believed that breathing through the left nostril activates the parasympathetic nervous system, inducing a state of relaxation, calmness, and introspection. In contrast, breathing through the right nostril stimulates the sympathetic nervous system, increasing energy, focus, and outward-directed activity.
In Buddhist traditions, the left nostril is associated with the concept of compassion and represents the “Bodhisattva” path, which involves cultivating compassion and helping others. The right nostril is linked to wisdom and represents the “Prajna” aspect, associated with understanding and insight.
It’s important to note that the significance of the left and right nostrils may vary among different Eastern traditions and individual interpretations.
