There are 3 subtle energy channels that run along the spine. These channels allow for the flow of consciousness. They are ida, pingala, and sushumna. Sushumna Nadi is the central channel and is represented by the pillar of the spine and the stillness and integrity with which the body moves around. It is the trunk of our tree of life. The ida and pingala run along the sides of sushumna, and in a sense, give life to the chakric system. The chakras are energy receptors which are connected and communicate through these major channels. Within the petals of our chakras are samaskaras (karmic seeds) or impressions/memories which trigger patterns in our lives.
The goal of yoga is to balance the ida and pingala channels drawing the pranic (energy) forces into the central channel (sushumna nadi) where stillness resides and where peace is experienced.
Allow the life force of your being – the breath – to collapse inward, centering all your attention on the stillness within, to ultimately support the integrity of your body and well being.
“All theory, dear friend, is gray,
but the golden tree of life springs forever green.”
Goethe
