YOGIC PURIFICATION
SHATKRIYAS
Shatkriyas, derived from the Sanskrit words "Shat" meaning six and "Kriya" meaning action, refer to a set of six purification techniques in Hatha Yoga. These techniques help to remove impurities, toxins, blockages, and promote balance in the doshas (biological energies), thereby promoting physical health, mental clarity, and spiritual well-being.
THE SIX PURIFICATION
TECHNIQUES
NETI
The word "Neti" is derived from the Sanskrit term meaning "nasal cleansing" or "nasal irrigation." There are two primary methods of performing Neti:
Jala Neti: In Jala Neti, a saline solution is prepared by mixing warm water with non-iodized salt. The practitioner uses a Neti pot, a small vessel with a spout, to pour the saline solution into one nostril while tilting the head to allow the fluid to flow through the nasal passages and out of the other nostril. The procedure is then repeated on the other side, and the nose is dried by bending forward and by rapid breathing.
This process helps to clear mucus, dust, pollen, and other debris from the nasal cavity, improving nasal breathing and reducing the risk of sinus infections and allergies.
Sutra Neti: Sutra Neti involves the use of a thin, flexible rubber catheter or waxed string called a "sutra" to clean the nasal passages. The practitioner gently inserts one end of the sutra into a nostril and carefully guides it through the nasal cavity until it emerges from the mouth. The sutra is then grasped with the fingers and slowly pulled out of the mouth, effectively removing any accumulated mucus or impurities along the way.
DHAUTI
Dhauti comprises various techniques for cleansing the digestive system and the gastrointestinal tract. It is divided into four parts: Antara (internal) Dhauti, Danta (teeth) Dhauti, Hrida (cardiac or chest region) Dhauti and Mula Shodhana (rectal cleansing).
Antara Dhauti, internal cleansing, is divided into four parts: Vatasara, Varisara, Agnisara, and Bahishkrita.
Danta Dhauti, dental cleansing, is divided into Danta Mula, Jihva Mula, Kapalarandhra, and Karna Dhauti. Chaksu Dhauti, the bathing of the eyes, is sometimes included.
Hrida Dhauti, chest cleansing, is divided into Danda Dhauti, Vaman Dhauti, and Vastra Dhauti.
Mula Shodhana, rectal or root cleansing, consists of washing the rectum, using water and "either a stick of turmeric or the middle finger".
NAULI
Nauli is an abdominal cleansing technique that involves isolating and massaging the abdominal muscles. It stimulates the digestive organs, enhances peristalsis, and strengthens the core muscles.
The practice of Nauli involves the following steps:
Uddiyana Bandha (The abdominal lock): The lungs are emptied, and the abdomen is pulled inwards and upwards under the lower edge of the ribcage.
Madhyana Nauli: Only the central muscles of the abdomen are contracted.
Vama Nauli: Only the left muscles of the abdomen are contracted.
Daksina Nauli: Only the right muscles of the abdomen are contracted.
BASTI
Basti is a cleansing practice that involves the administration of enemas to cleanse the colon and remove accumulated waste material. It aids in detoxification, improves bowel function, and balances the doshas.
There are two main types of Basti:
Sthala basti (aka Sushka basti or Vata basti), cleans the colon by sucking air in the body without the help of any catheter or tube.
Jala basti (aka 'Vati basti') cleans the colon by sucking water into the anus through a pipe.
KAPALABHATI
The word "Kapalabhati" is derived from the Sanskrit words "Kapala," meaning "skull," and "Bhati," meaning "to shine" or "to illuminate." Therefore, Kapalabhati is often translated as "skull shining breath" or "frontal brain cleansing." It is a breathing technique that involves forceful exhalations followed by passive inhalations. It cleanses the respiratory system, increases lung capacity, and energizes the body.
TRATAKA
The word "Trataka" is derived from the Sanskrit term meaning "to gaze" or "to look steadily." It is a technique of gazing or focusing the eyes on a fixed point, such as a candle flame, a symbol, or a point of light. This practice enhances concentration, mental clarity, and inner awareness, while also calming the mind and reducing stress.