To combat insomnia, “moon breathing” would seem ideal. But what does it consist of? How to practice it? Explanations from Aude Burlot, yoga teacher.
On social networks, she is everywhere. “Lunar breathing”, from the practice of yoga, is the new popular well-being method which, according to fans, allows you to wake up every day in great shape. But what should we think about it? Is it really effective? Let’s do a check in.
Better sleep and increased concentration
Coming from yoga, lunar breathing (or “moon breathing”) consists of modifying your breathing to fall asleep more easily.
The nose, mouth and upper body would thus be used, but also the mind, in order to release all the tensions accumulated during the day.
Lunar breathing would also, according to its followers, promote concentration and relieve transit.
Finally, the left side would be particularly stressed, since in the philosophy of Yoga, it is on this side that the intuitive energies, linked to the moon, are concentrated.
According to Aude Burlot, certified yoga teacher, this breathing “allows a return to oneself”.
“All inhalations (Puraka) are done through the left nostril, all expirations (Recaka) are done through the right nostril. When the air enters through the left nostril, it passes through Ida Nadi, inducing calming of the body and mind. Ida is the energy channel located on the left side of the body, its energy is connected to the parasympathetic system. By helping the mind to slow down, by releasing the pressure stored during the day, this breathing can improve sleep and falling asleep.“, she explains.
Consult a doctor online for your sleep problems
Lunar breathing: how to practice it?
To reproduce this breathing technique at home, Aude Burlot recommends following the following steps:
- In a comfortable seat, with the spine long, the right hand is placed in front of the face, the thumb on the right nostril, the index finger on the left nostril.
- Exhale, close the right nostril with your thumb.
- Inhale through the left nostril, close the left nostril with the index finger.
- Exhale through the right nostril, and so on for several breathing cycles.
“For a less intense version, inhalation and exhalation are done through the left nostril (the right nostril remains blocked all the time with the thumb)“, specifies the Yoga teacher.
Precaution: Moon breathing should not be practiced in cases of depression, intense fatigue or lack of motivation. It is difficult in the event of a deviated nasal septum or a blocked nose. This breathing has a cooling effect, so it is not recommended to practice it in winter.
