Shatkarma

Found in the early Yoga Upanishads, the definition of Hatha Yoga is the precise science of the shatkarmas. Shat means ' six' and karma is 'action'; the shatkarmas are six groups of purification practices. The aim of hatha yoga and , therefore, of the shatkarmas is to create harmony between the two major pranic flows, Ida and Pingala, thereby attaining physical and mental purification and balance.

The shatkarmas are also used to balance the three doshas or humours in the body; KAPHA, mucus; PITTA, bile; VATA,wind. According to ayurveda (the medical science of yoga), an imbalance in the doshas will result in illness. These practices are also used in conjunction with pranayama and other higher yoga practices in order to purify the body of toxins and ensure safe and successful progression along the spiritual path to liberation.

Swami Satyananda Saraswati

SUTRA NETI

This practice involves passing a length of cotton thread through the nose. Traditionally, a specially prepared cotton thread,sutra, was used. Several strands were tightly wrapped together and dipped in beeswax. The width about 4mm and length 36 to 45 cm. Nowdays we use a size 4 catheter for beginners and progress to size 6. , lubricated with melted ghee, or edible oil.

Tilt the head slightly back. Gently and slowly insert the narrow end of the catheter

or waxed end of the thread into whichever nostril is flowing more freely.

As the thread is inserted , twist it so that it enters the nostril easily. Always keep the tip pointing downward towards the base of the nose. Never push the catheter straight up because the nasal cavity is behind the nose, not at the top of the nose.

When the thread reaches the back of the throat, insert the index finger and thumb and gently pull the thread out through the mouth, leaving a few inches of thread hanging out the nostril.

This action may cause retching at first, but it will become easier with practice.

Hold each end of the sutra or catheter with the fingers.

Very slowly and gently pull it backward and forward, no more than 15 times on the first attempt.

Remove it slowly through the nose and repeat the process with the opposite nostril.

VAMAN DHAUTI

GAJA KARMA KRIYA

Drink at least 6 glasses of warm salted water. Stand with the feet a comfortable distance apart, bend forward and place the hands on the knees.

Relax the whole body

Open the mouth and breath slowly, making a whispering 'ah' sound from the deeper part of the throat.

Simultaneously, contract the upper part of the abdomen just below the ribcage

At the end of the exhalation, retain the compression of the abdomen and exhale.

If this is done correctly , the water should gush out of the mouth in a steady stream

It is important the body remains relaxed during expulsion so that the water is not impeded

Bihar school of yoga, Swami Satyananda Saraswati

At the Shankara studio we teach about these yoga practices but we wont be practicing them in the studio. well not the ones involving enemas and swallowing and regurgitating cloth , or vomiting......... bit messy.

Stomach churning and neti pot is about the extent of it in the shala. If you want to learn more we can refer you to places on the island that have in depth courses and ayurvedic doctors, like Bali Yoga Retreat in Ubud.

NAULI