The nadis, or psychic channels are often regarded as the subtle counterpart of the nervous system. Their function is to conduct energy around the aura, between the various major and minor chakras.
There are often said to be 72,000 nadis, though authorities vary between far larger and significantly smaller figures. Of these by far the most important are the three channels running up the spine, the Ida, Pingala and Sushumna nadis.
Ida is the 'negative' channel running between the psychic centre at the base of the spine (known in yogic teachings as Muladhara and the left nostril. The energies it carries are cool and calming.
Conversely the Pingala nadi runs from the base of the spine centre to the right nostril and carries energies that are warm and invigorating.
The contrary qualities of these energies is the reason why it is important to maintain a balance between the airflow, and therefore energy, passing though the nostrils, as without it one's overall energetic balance becomes distorted. If the right nostril is blocked you will tend to feel lethargic, and nervy is the left is impeded. Hence the emphasis in yogic breathing exercises of alternate nostril breathing.
Of even greater importance is the Sushumna nadi. This flows through the centre of the spinal column. to it are attached the major psychic centres or chakras at the front and back of the body. It is also through this channel that the power of kundalini rises from the base of the spine and enters the higher chakras, bringing ever higher levels of consciousness and awareness.
