Did you know that the ancient teachings of Ayurveda instruct you to eat food according to the dominance of your nostril?
In a recent video, content creator Puneet Nahata explains this practice in detail: According to Ayurveda, our nostrils Energy Center One is associated with the Sun (right nostril) and the other with the Moon (left nostril).
Before eating, it is important to check which nostril is more active. If the left nostril is dominant, it indicates that the lunar energy is active. Intake of fluids Instead of solid food, drink beverages like tea, coffee, water etc. Conversely, if the right nostril is dominant and indicates solar energy, then you can eat solid foods like rice, grains, vegetables etc. This habit is said to aid digestion.
Digging deeper into this intriguing concept, Professor AV Srinivasan, dean of Sri Palipoorna Sanatana Ayurvedic Medical College, Hospital and Research Centre, on the outskirts of Bangalore, explores the relevance and benefits of eating according to your dominant nostril.
Harmonizing Nostril Dominance: Ayurvedic Insights into Digestive Health
Dr Srinivasan agrees that Ayurveda links nostril dominance to the flow of energy within the body: “According to this tradition, the right nostril is linked to the ‘pingala’ energy channel, which represents warmth, activity and digestion. In contrast, the left nostril corresponds to the ‘idea’ channel, which is associated with coolness, rest and assimilation,” he explains.
The dominance of one nostril over the other affects physiology, including digestion. Food choices should be tailored to the dominance of the nostril. Optimal Digestion And overall health.
For example, if the right nostril is dominant, he says, consuming heavy, warm foods will strengthen the digestive fire. Conversely, if the left nostril is dominant, lighter, cooler foods are recommended to balance the system. The practice is intended to harmonize the body’s energy for improved health.
Are there certain times during the day when one nostril is more dominant than the other?
In Ayurveda, nostril dominance is believed to cycle through the day, explains Dr Srinivasan: Generally, right nostril dominance is associated with daytime and activity, while the left nostril dominance is nighttime and resting.
this Cyclical Patterns Typically, nasal dominance occurs at roughly two-hour intervals, known as ultradian cycles. However, the exact timing of nasal dominance varies from person to person and can be affected by lifestyle, diet, and overall health, he says. By observing your own body’s rhythms and responses, you can adjust your dietary choices and lifestyle practices for optimal health.
Improved digestion
Dr. Srinivasan asserts, “The Ayurvedic tradition of aligning food choices with the dominant nostril is believed to support overall digestion and health. Synchronizing meal times with the dominant nostril is believed to optimise the body’s natural rhythm and boost the digestive process.”
However, he acknowledges that the effectiveness of these digestive habits may vary from person to person. Individual constitutions, lifestyles, and overall health will affect how you respond to these habits.
If my left nostril is dominant at night, should I still consume caffeinated beverages?
“If you find that your left nostril is dominant at night and you are feeling more rested, it’s a good idea to consume light, easily digestible foods closer to bedtime. Liquids such as chai or coffee are options, but it’s generally recommended to avoid consuming caffeine close to bedtime as it can interfere with restful sleep,” he admits.
Instead, he recommends considering alternatives such as: Herb tea (Caffeine-free), warm milk with a little nutmeg or cardamom, light soup, or small amounts of easily digestible snacks such as fruit and nuts. These options can help promote relaxation and aid digestion without interfering with sleep.
Advice and suggestions for those who want to incorporate this habit into their daily lives
Here are some guidelines from Dr. Srinivasan for incorporating nostril dominance food choices into your daily life:
Observe the dominance of the nostrils: Pay attention to your dominant nostril throughout the day. You can do this by noticing which nostril is more open or active.
Plan your meals accordingly: Your diet should be aligned with your nostril dominance – for example, if your right nostril dominates during the day, choose heavier, warmer foods, and if your left nostril dominates at night, choose lighter, warmer foods. Easier to understand options.
Always pay attention to: Pay attention to how foods affect your body and digestion, and observe what changes occur in your energy levels, digestion, or overall health as you adjust your diet based on nostril dominance.
Listen to your body: Listen to your body’s signals and adjust your food choices accordingly: if you feel heavy or sluggish after consuming certain types of foods, consider making adjustments for better digestion.
Incorporate Ayurvedic principles: Incorporate Ayurvedic principles into your daily routine, such as integrating seasonal and mindful eating practices and balancing your diet by incorporating all six tastes (sweet, sour, salty, spicy, bitter and astringent).
In terms of precautions and contraindications, those with certain health conditions or dietary restrictions should proceed with caution and consult with a healthcare provider or Ayurvedic expert before undertaking this practice.
