The Nasal Cycle: Observations over Prolonged Periods of Time

Ancient yoga texts concerned with the study of breathing patterns, or pranayama, have remarked upon a regular alternation of nasal flow through one nostril and then the other.

In addition to an underlying cycle, certain activities and psychological conditions were noted to be associated with predominant flow through one particular nostril. Right nostril dominance, for instance, was associated with outward directedness, more vigorous activity and also certain physiologic states such as occur in the digestion of food. Left nostril predominance was related to more, quiet, receptive moods.