Jala Neti is one on the six 'Shatakarmas' or yogic purification practices

Shat-six Karmas-Action

The idea behind these six yogic cleansing practices is to create harmony and balance between Ida and Pingala the two major pranic flows.

Preparation-Start by finding a Neti pot that is suitable for you. Make sure that it is made of materials that will not contaminate the water. It is important that the nozzle fits snug into the nostril so that the water doesn’t leak out during the practice. Take time to find the pot that is right for you.

The water used should be purified and at room temperature. The salt should be a fine sea salt, 1 tsp per half a litre of water.

Why salt? Salt is used to ensure the osmotic pressure of the water is equal to that of the body fluids which will counter act any irritation to the mucus membrane.If burning sensations occur then there is either to much or to little salt in the water, adjust accordingly.

Washing the nostrils:

• Fill the Neti Lota(pot) with the prepared solution.
• Blow the nose and allow the body to relax and take a few moments to breathe with the eyes closed.You may want to sit in a comfortable position or stand with the legs apart and the body weight distributed between the feet.Lean forward,tilt the head to one side and slightly back.
• Begin breathing through the mouth then gently insert the nozzle into the upper most nostril.Make sure that the nozzle is a comfortable fit to prevent any leakage.You may want to adjust the body position so that the water can pass through and out of the opposite nostril.
• When you have completed one side either using the full amount of water in the pot or half ,remove the nozzle from the nose allow the head to come to the centre and let the water naturally run out through the nose.When the water has stopped running gently blow the nose to remove any mucus.
• Tilt the head to the opposite side and repeat the process.

Drying the nostrils:

• Close the right nostril with the right thumb and breathe in and out quickly through the left nostril approximately 10 times, emphasizing the exhalation.This can be compared to ‘Kapalbhati’breath or a breath of fire but without pumping the navel centre.
• Repeat on the other side then repeat once more through both nostrils.

Draining trapped water from the sinus cavities: Stand or sit straight,close the right nostril and exhale forcefully through the left while bending forwards rapidly from the waist.Inhale normally returning to the upright position.Repeat 5-10 times.

• Repeat this with the right nostril open,then both nostrils open.

Duration

Practice for up to 5 minutes a day

Awareness

Be aware that the body is relaxed and it's positioning is correct making sure no water leaks from the nozzle of the pot.This is something to be aware of especially for beginners.

Spiritual awareness

Ajna chakra-3rd eye

When to practice:

Ideally in the morning before Sadhana,however Neti may be performed anytime accept after a meal.

Precautions

The water should only pass through the nose.If the water is passing out through the mouth then it is important to adjust the head position Dry the nose well after practice to prevent irritated nasal passages and cold symptoms.Be gentle when blowing the nose afterwards.

Contraindications:

Nose bleeds or if there is a structural blockage.

Benefits:

• Removes mucus and pollution from the nasal passages and sinuses.
• Helps prevent and manage asthma,pneumonia,bronchitis,pulmonary tuberculosis it helps to relieve allergies and hayfever including allergic rhinitis,colds and sinusitis .All disorders of the ears eyes and throat,glue ear and tonsillitis.Inflammation of the adenoids and mucus membranes.
• Children who mouth breath can also benefit from Jala Neti practice.
• Because Jala Neti reduces tension in the face it also helps to maintain a youthful appearance.
• Jala Neti also has a cooling effect on the brain which helps treat epilepsy, migraines and alleviates anxiety and depression.
• It removes drowsiness and makes the head feel light and fresh.
• Brain activity is increased through the stimulation of the nerve endings in the nose.
• It induces a state of harmony and balance and awakens Ajna chakra the intuitive centre.

Photographs by Simon.