Shatkarma- Purification Techniques in Ancient Indian Yoga
What is Shatkarma?
Yogic science is a vast subject and talks widely about various cleansing techniques. Just like asana or pranayama, yogic science gives much importance to certain cleansing processes as it is a prerequisite for attaining the greatest benefits from yoga practices.
Shatkarma, also known as Shatkriya or Shatkriyas, is a set of purification techniques in ancient Indian yoga. These practices aim to cleanse and purify the physical and energetic bodies, preparing them for the practice of yoga and meditation. Shatkarma techniques are mentioned in ancient yogic texts like the Hatha Yoga Pradipika and the Gheranda Samhita.
The term “Shatkarma” is derived from the Sanskrit words “shat,” meaning six, and “karma,” meaning action or technique. Therefore, Shatkarma refers to the six purification techniques that are traditionally practiced in yoga.
The Six Groups of Shatkarma
The main purpose of practicing shatkarma, or six purificatory techniques, is to bring about the cleansing of the body, which is vital for maintaining good physical and mental health. These six simple methods are also beneficial in healing internal disturbances. Now let us have a look at the six main groups of shatkarma:
1. Neti: Neti is the nasal cleansing technique. It involves the purification of the nasal passages using a special pot called a neti pot or a technique called jala neti, which uses a saline solution. The aim of neti is to remove impurities, dust, and mucus from the nasal passages and to improve the flow of breath.
The Neti practice is further divided into two types: Jal Neti and Sutra (Rubber) Neti
a) Jal Neti: Jal Neti, or saline nasal irrigation, is the most well-known and widely practiced form of neti. It involves using a neti pot or a specially designed saline solution bottle to pour a saline solution through one nostril and let it flow out through the other. Jal Neti helps to flush out mucus, allergens, and debris from the nasal passages, providing relief from nasal congestion and sinus-related issues.
b) Sutra Neti: Sutra Neti involves using a thin rubber catheter or a waxed thread to clean the nasal passages. The catheter or thread is gently inserted through one nostril and then carefully pulled out through the mouth. This technique is performed under the guidance of an experienced practitioner and is believed to provide a more thorough cleansing of the nasal passages. Sutra Neti may also help to improve nasal breathing and stimulate the nasal tissues.
2. Dhauti: Dhauti is the cleansing of the digestive tract. There are several types of dhauti practices, including Shankhaprakshalana (intestinal cleansing) and Vastra Dhauti (cleansing with a cloth). These techniques aim to cleanse the stomach, esophagus, and intestines, promoting better digestion and overall health.
3. Basti: Basti refers to the practice of colon cleansing. It involves the introduction of water or other cleansing substances into the colon to remove toxins and accumulated waste matter. Basti helps in purifying the lower abdomen and improving the functioning of the digestive system.
4. Trataka: Trataka is the practice of gazing steadily at a fixed point. It can be done by focusing on an object, such as a candle flame or a specific point on a wall. Trataka helps to improve concentration, focus, and mental clarity. It also has a calming effect on the mind.
5. Nauli: Nauli is an abdominal massage technique. It involves isolating and rotating the abdominal muscles in a circular motion. Nauli helps to stimulate the digestive organs, improves digestion, and massages the internal organs, promoting their healthy functioning.
6. Kapalabhati: Kapalabhati is a breathing technique that involves forceful exhalation through the nose while the inhalation is passive. This rapid and forceful exhalation helps to cleanse the respiratory system, clear the nasal passages, and increase oxygenation. Kapalabhati also energizes the body and mind.
Shatkarma and Yoga: The Connection
Shatkarma practices hold significant importance in the practice of yoga for several reasons. These include:
1. Purification of the Physical Body: Shatkarma techniques are primarily aimed at cleansing and purifying the physical body. They help remove toxins, impurities, and accumulated waste matter from various organs and systems, such as the nasal passages, digestive tract, and respiratory system. By purifying the physical body, these practices promote better health, improve bodily functions, and create a more harmonious environment for the practice of yoga.
2.Preparation for Asana and Pranayama: Shatkarma techniques prepare the body for the practice of asanas (physical postures) and pranayama (breathing exercises). By cleansing the nasal passages and respiratory system, these practices enhance the flow of breath, allowing for a deeper and more efficient practice of pranayama. Similarly, by purifying the digestive system, they optimize digestion and eliminate discomfort, enabling practitioners to engage in asanas with greater ease and comfort.
3.Balancing the Doshas: According to Ayurveda, an ancient Indian system of medicine, the human body is composed of three doshas or energetic principles—Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. Imbalances in these doshas can lead to various physical and mental ailments. Shatkarma practices are believed to help balance the doshas, bringing them into a state of equilibrium. By promoting balance and harmony within the body, these practices contribute to overall well-being and health.
4.Mental and Emotional Cleansing: Shatkarma techniques not only purify the physical body but also have a cleansing effect on the mind and emotions. Practices like Trataka (steady gazing) and Kapalabhati (forceful exhalation) help improve concentration, mental clarity, and focus. They also release accumulated stress, tension, and negative emotions, promoting a calm and balanced state of mind.
5.Spiritual Growth: Shatkarma practices are not only about physical purification but also serve as a means of spiritual preparation. By cleansing and purifying the body and mind, these practices create a conducive environment for higher spiritual growth, such as meditation and self-realization. They help remove obstacles, energetic blockages, and distractions, allowing practitioners to dive deeper into their inner journey.
6.Lifestyle Enhancement and Self-care: Shatkarma practices can be integrated into one’s lifestyle as part of a holistic self-care routine. They can serve as preventive measures to maintain optimal health and well-being. Incorporating these practices into daily life can help individuals develop a sense of self-discipline, self-awareness, and connection with their bodies.
Conclusion
The Shatkarma techniques are considered advanced practices in yoga and are traditionally learned under the guidance of an experienced yoga teacher. They are believed to purify the body, balance the doshas (energetic principles) in the body, and prepare the practitioner for higher states of meditation and spiritual awakening.
However, each individual’s needs and limitations should be taken into consideration, and modifications may be necessary for certain practitioners. Hence, it’s important to approach these techniques with caution and learn them from a qualified teacher to ensure proper guidance and safety.