The Six Cleansing Acts (Shatkarma)
- Neti (Nasal Cleansing)
- Jal Neti: Involves pouring saline water through one nostril and letting it flow out of the other, clearing the nasal passages and sinuses.
- Sutra Neti: A more advanced technique that uses a thin thread to cleanse the nasal passages by inserting it into the nostrils and pulling it through.
Benefits:
- Clears nasal passages.
- Improves breathing.
- Relieves sinus issues and allergies.
- Enhances mental clarity.
- Dhauti (Cleansing the Stomach)
- Involves techniques for purging the stomach of toxins.
- Vaman Dhauti: Drinking salty water and inducing vomiting to cleanse the stomach.
- Shankhaprakshalana: A more intense cleansing of the digestive tract using large amounts of water combined with yoga poses.
Benefits:
- Clears the stomach of accumulated waste and toxins.
- Improves digestion.
- Promotes better nutrient absorption.
- Basti (Colon Cleansing)
- Similar to an enema, Basti involves the introduction of water or herbal solutions into the rectum to cleanse the colon.
- Jala Basti: Water is introduced to the colon and then expelled.
- Sutra Basti: A more advanced technique using a rubber tube for deeper cleansing.
Benefits:
- Cleanses the colon, removing excess waste.
- Improves bowel movements and digestion.
- Reduces constipation and bloating.
- Nauli (Abdominal Churning)
- A yogic technique that involves contracting and massaging the abdominal muscles, creating a rolling motion with the stomach.
- It requires a lot of control and strength in the core.
Benefits:
- Tones the abdominal muscles.
- Stimulates the digestive organs.
- Enhances metabolism and digestion.
- Helps with constipation and bloating.
- Kapalbhati (Skull Shining Breath)
- A form of pranayama where forceful exhalations are followed by passive inhalations. This cleansing technique clears the airways and strengthens the respiratory system.
Benefits:
- Improves lung capacity and oxygen supply.
- Clears mucus from the respiratory system.
- Stimulates the abdominal organs, aiding in digestion.
- Energizes and calms the mind.
- Trataka (Concentration and Gazing)
- Trataka involves gazing steadily at a candle flame, object, or image to focus the mind and purify the eyes.
- The practice trains concentration and improves visual clarity.
Benefits:
- Improves concentration and mental clarity.
- Enhances vision and eye health.
- Balances the mind, aiding in meditation.
- Reduces stress and mental distractions.
Overall Benefits of Shatkarma
- Detoxification: These cleansing practices help eliminate toxins, waste, and impurities from the body, improving overall health and vitality.
- Mental Clarity: Clears mental blockages, improves focus, and calms the mind, making meditation and pranayama more effective.
- Improved Digestion: Supports digestive health by clearing out toxins and promoting better absorption of nutrients.
- Increased Vitality: Balances internal energy, promotes longevity, and enhances physical and emotional well-being.
- Spiritual Growth: Prepares the body for deeper yogic practices and spiritual development.
Precautions
- Shatkarma practices should be done under the guidance of an experienced yoga instructor.
- It is important to follow the proper techniques and listen to your body to avoid overstretching or injury.
- People with certain health conditions, such as heart disease or gastrointestinal issues, should consult a healthcare provider before attempting these practices.