The concepts of Nadis, Prana, and Chakras are essential for understanding the subtle energy body in yoga and tantra. At the heart of this system lies Prana, the life force that flows through our bodies, supporting existence and vitality. Nadis act as channels or pathways for this energetic flow, while Chakras are the energy centers where Prana is concentrated.
The 39 Main Nadis
The ancient text Shatchakra Niroopana Chittra identifies 39 primary Nadis, but three are particularly significant in yogic practice:
- Ida Nadi (Moon Channel): This Nadi flows from the left side of the Muladhara (Root) Chakra. It is associated with feminine energy. It represents intuition and lunar aspects of consciousness. It governs mental processes and emotional well-being.
- Pingala Nadi (Sun Channel): Originating on the right side of the Muladhara Chakra, Pingala represents masculine energy and solar qualities. This channel is linked to action, logic, and outward expressions of energy.
- Sushumna Nadi: This central channel runs along the spinal column. It extends from the base (Muladhara) to the top of the head (Sahasrara or Crown Chakra). It plays a vital role in spiritual awakening, allowing for the ascent of energy when the Kundalini rises.
Subtle Nadis Within Sushumna
Within the Sushumna, three important subtle Nadis contribute to the flow of energy:
- Vajra Nadi: This Nadi ascends from the Muladhara to the Sahasrara, serving as a pathway for spiritual energy.
- Chitrini Nadi: This extremely fine Nadi travels through all seven chakras. It is akin to a spider’s thread. It connects each center in a delicate web of energy.
- Brahma Nadi: Located at the core of Chitrini, this sacred channel links all seven chakras, resembling a string of pearls and representing the deepest aspects of spiritual connection and unity.
The 36 Extra Nadis
In addition, to the core three, the remaining 36 Nadis connect with various Chakras and spread throughout the body, facilitating the flow of Prana:
- Ajna Chakra (Third Eye Chakra):
- Alambusha: Associated with the mouth.
- Vishuddhi Chakra (Throat Chakra):
- Hastijiva: Connected to the right eye.
- Gandhari: Linked to the left eye.
- Pusha: Pertaining to the right ear.
- Yashasvini: Related to the left ear.
- Varuna and marika: Connected to the collarbones.
- Other Nadis in the chest region.
- Anahata Chakra (Heart Chakra):
Nadis like Pita, Nila, Vrunda, and Taraka are located around the heart and diaphragm. - Manipura Chakra (Solar Plexus Chakra):
Multiple Nadis spread across the abdomen, including Vishvodari, Sarada, and Kali, among others. - Swadhisthana Chakra (Sacral Chakra):
Nadis around the waist include Sutra, Vishva, and Avantika. - Muladhara Chakra (Root Chakra):
The Shankhini Nadi serves as a hidden channel extending from the Root to the Crown Chakra.
The Expansive Energy Network
Though often referenced as having 72,000 Nadis, some teachings suggest there may be up to 350,000. This layered understanding can be broken down as follows:
- The 36 Nadis converge into the three primary ones (Ida, Pingala, Sushumna).
- These three further branch into 72 smaller Nadis.
- Each smaller Nadi divides into approximately 1,000 micro-Nadis.
The symbolic nature of these numbers illustrates the vast and intricate energy network within the body. This network functions similarly to how veins and arteries circulate blood.
Importance of Nadi Cleansing
Just as blocked arteries impede blood flow, obstructed Nadis limit the movement of Prana, affecting physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being. Techniques such as Pranayama (breathing exercises), meditation, and mantra chanting help keep the Nadis clear and energized, promoting optimal health.
Understanding the 39 primary Nadis and their relationships with the Chakras enriches our knowledge of the energy body. Engaging with this system through yogic and meditative practices helps in facilitating spiritual awakening. It heightens awareness and fosters a balanced state of being. The awakening and cleansing of the Nadi system promise access to vitality, deeper consciousness, and transformative experiences.
~AdiMaitreya Rudrabhayananda
Maitreya Wisdom 