Shatkarma

[AYPforum]

What are Shatkarma?

Shatkarmas are techniques used in cleansing the inner channels of the body and certain hygiene related techniques. The hygiene related techniques involve bathing and cleaning of the eyes, ears and mouth. The cleansing of the inner channels involve cleansing the gastrointestinal (GI) tract, nasal passages and sinuses. Shatkarmas can be used to enhance our purification and openings, and also used for health reasons.


Some of the commonly used Shatkarma techniques are:

1) Jala Neti (nasal wash)
2) Basti (colon cleansing/enema)
3) Dhauti (intestinal wash)
4) Nauli (churning of the abdominal muscles)
5) Kapalbhati (sudden exhale, a nerve cleansing pranayama method)
6) Trataka (an eye/attention gazing method).


Read more about it here:
Lesson 312 – Shatkarmas, Bodily Purification and Enlightenment
Lesson 316 – More Shatkarmas and Overall Guidelines


At the forum:

Shatkarma
Yamas & Niyamas - Restraints & Observances
JALA NETI
pick, chew, swallow
 
AYP books covering Shatkarmas:
Diet, Shatkarmas and Amaroli - Yogic Nutrition & Cleansing for Health and Spirit