Neti (Cleansing Of The Nose)
Introduction
There are two methods to cleanse the nose with Neti: – Jala Neti: cleansing with water, with a special pot called a lota. – Sutra Neti: cleansing with a piece of clothe or a rubber string, called a catheter.
Jala Neti technique (cleansing with water)
This is the simplest method.
- Fill the lota with luck warm water (preferably slightly salted with unrefined sea salt).
- Lean the head on the left side and pour water in the right nostril.
- Water should come out through the other nostril.
- Repeat the operation on the other side.
- Rinse the nose with water. In the beginning, this technique may provoke lachrymal secretions (tears) which contribute to cleanse the nose and the sinuses. It passes with a little bit of practice.
Sutra Neti technique (cleansing with a catheter)
This method is more delicate and should be practiced with caution.
- Humidify nostrils or practice Jala Neti first.
- Put the catheter under water so that it becomes more slippery.
- Introduce the catheter in the right nostril.
- Push it upwards in the nose very gently until where sinuses are crossing.
- Make it go down in the mouth and grab it with the thumb and the index.
- Gently move it back and forth to thoroughly cleanse the nose and the sinuses.
- Repeat the operation with the other nostril.
- Rinse both nostrils with water.
Benefits
- Cleanses nasal cavities.
- Removes excess of mucus from nose, sinuses and throat.
- Stimulates and frees the sinuses.
- Prevents sinusitis.
- Stimulates and balances many areas of the body through reflex points in the nose and sinuses.
Caution
- Avoid Sutra Neti in case of lesion or inflammation inside the nose or sinuses.