Meditation for Dealing with Your Own Mind

According to yoga, the breath is the key to controlling your mind and, therefore, your life. In this kriya, you breathe exclusively through the left nostril, which calms the nervous system, supports the heart, and begins to move you from a mindset of reactivity to positivity.

Mind can take you into any thought, beyond thought, and unto Infinity. Mind can take you into any dungeon, any pit, and any negativity. Mind has no limit in its own self. But mind is your servant. If the mind becomes your master, you don't have a chance. It is very essential in yoga that we know our own mind. - Yogi Bhajan

The Practice

Practice: Inhale Left Nostril, Exhale Mouth

Time: Aim for 6 minutes

To Finish: Inhale deeply, interlace your fingers and stretch them over your head with the palms facing up, hold your breath for 10-15 seconds while you stretch your spine upward.

After two minutes, you may start feeling bored. The negative mind kicks in: “What are you doing this for? This is a waste of time. I could be doing something else.” The mind doesn’t want to be caught. It wants to roam freely. Notice the struggle, and return to the practice.

It’s hard work to control the mind, but in doing so we gain true freedom.

Comments

Long deep breathing through the left nostril is good for the heart and good for the health. It will calm you down. You can train yourself to breathe through either nostril.