An interrupted rhythm

Traditionally, the dominant nostril changes every 90 minutes to 2 hours. Modern life often interrupts this rhythm. Stress, screens, long hours of sitting and constant stimulation can leave one side dominant for many hours at a time.

In the yogic and Ayurvedic traditions, this was considered an early sign that the body’s natural balance was being disturbed. One of the simplest practices prescribed to restore this balance was Anuloma Viloma — alternate nostril breathing.