Nadis in Yogic Science and their Correlation with Modern Neuroanatomy

In Yogic philosophy, Nadis are considered subtle channels for the flow of Pranic energy, with Ida, Pingala, and Sushumna regarded as the most significant. While their spiritual and physiological roles are emphasized in classical texts, their structural correlation with human anatomy remains less defined. This study aims to explore the structural perspective of Nadis and correlate Ida, Pingala, and Sushumna with relevant anatomical structures of the nervous system. A narrative review was conducted using classical Yogic texts, Samhitas, and Swasthavritta treatises, alongside contemporary scientific literature in neuroanatomy and physiology. Comparative analysis was applied to align Yogic descriptions of Nadis with modern anatomical structures and autonomic nervous system functions. Yogic texts describe Sushumna as a central channel extending from the Mooladhara to the Brahmarandhra, comparable to the spinal cord. Ida and Pingala, arising from the Mooladhara and spiraling around Sushumna to converge at the Ajna Chakra, were correlated with the left and right sympathetic trunks, respectively. Functional attributes also paralleled autonomic regulation: Ida was associated with parasympathetic activity and a calming influence, whereas Pingala aligned with sympathetic activation and stimulation. Evidence from physiological studies, such as unilateral nostril breathing practices, supported these correlations by demonstrating specific autonomic responses. Structural analogies were further observed between the Chakras and autonomic plexuses. The review highlights a significant correspondence between Yogic concepts of Nadis and modern neuroanatomy. Nadis may symbolically represent neural pathways, particularly the spinal cord and sympathetic chains, thus bridging traditional Yogic philosophy with contemporary scientific understanding.