Sutra Neti is one of the six purification practices (shatkarmas) in Hatha Yoga involving the cleansing of nasal passages using a soft cotton or specially designed rubber thread. The term combines ‘sutra’ meaning thread or string and ‘neti’ referring to nasal cleansing. This technique is distinct from jala neti which uses saline water for nasal irrigation.
In the traditional practice a soft cotton string approximately 24 inches long sometimes coated with beeswax for smoothness is gently inserted into one nostril and guided through the nasal passage until it can be grasped with fingers or tweezers through the mouth. Once secured the string is gently moved back and forth in a sawing motion before being pulled out through the mouth. The process is then repeated with the other nostril.
Classical texts like the Hatha Yoga Pradipika praise sutra neti for its effectiveness in clearing the sinuses enhancing breath awareness improving conditions like sinusitis allergies and headaches and preparing the nadis (subtle energy channels) for pranayama. The practice is said to stimulate important marma points (vital energy locations) in the nasal passages and activate higher centers of consciousness.
Modern yoga approaches often introduce sutra neti in advanced cleansing workshops emphasizing proper technique and hygiene. Many teachers recommend mastering jala neti before attempting sutra neti and stress that the practice should be learned directly from an experienced instructor to avoid discomfort or injury.
