Cleansing practices in yoga known as Shatkarmas or Kriyas are six purification techniques designed to cleanse the body and prepare it for deeper yogic practices. These methods are described in classical texts like the Hatha Yoga Pradipika and Gheranda Samhita and aim to remove impurities (doshas) from different bodily systems.
The six traditional cleansing practices include:
- Neti: Nasal cleansing using water (Jala Neti) or a string (Sutra Neti) to clear sinus passages.
- Dhauti: Cleansing of the digestive tract including techniques for the esophagus stomach and intestines.
- Nauli: Abdominal massage through muscular contraction and churning movements of the abdominal muscles.
- Basti: Colon cleansing similar to an enema using water to purify the lower intestine.
- Kapalbhati: Skull-shining breath involving forceful exhalations to clear respiratory passages.
- Trataka: Steady gazing at a fixed point (often a candle flame) to cleanse and strengthen the eyes and develop concentration.
Modern yoga practitioners often adopt modified versions of these practices suitable for contemporary lifestyles. Benefits include improved respiratory function enhanced digestion reduced allergies increased energy and mental clarity. These techniques prepare the body for more advanced pranayama and meditation practices by removing obstacles to the flow of prana (life force).
