The Ida and Pingala mantras are associated with the two principal nadis (energy channels) in the subtle body, as described in yogic and tantric scriptures such as the *Shiva Samhita* and the *Gheranda Samhita*. Ida is the lunar channel, cooling and feminine, associated with the left nostril and the moon (Chandra). Pingala is the solar channel, heating and masculine, associated with the right nostril and the sun (Surya). The mantras are typically simple bija-based chants: 'Om Ida' and 'Om Pingala', or the single syllables 'Iṁ' and 'Pīṁ' as found in the *Mantra Mahodadhi* (chapter on nadi shuddhi).
These mantras are used to balance the flow of prana through the two channels, harmonizing the dualities of masculine and feminine, hot and cold, active and receptive. According to the *Yoga Sutras of Patanjali* (commentary on siddhi), control of the nadis leads to steadiness of mind and body. The traditional purpose is to purify the nadis (nadi shuddhi) and prepare the practitioner for the awakening of Kundalini, which resides in the central Sushumna nadi. Chanting is recommended during pranayama practices, especially in the morning or evening, with a count of 108 repetitions per channel using a rudraksha or crystal mala.
The practitioner may alternate between left and right nostril breathing while mentally chanting the corresponding mantra. Cautions: These mantras should be learned from a qualified guru, as improper practice can lead to energy imbalances. They are not recommended for those with severe mental disorders or without prior grounding in basic yoga asanas and pranayama. The *Hatha Yoga Pradipika* (chapter 2) emphasizes that nadi purification must precede higher practices.
The mantras are chanted silently or aloud, with focus on the breath and the corresponding nostril. The ultimate goal is to bring the two channels into equilibrium, allowing prana to enter Sushumna, leading to spiritual awakening.
Salutations to the lunar channel Ida.
The mantra contains the seed syllable 'Iṁ' (इं) associated with the lunar channel, representing the cooling, feminine energy.