03/13/2024
Lifestyle Focus: Nasal Cleansing (Neti and Nasya)
I posted this before but wanted to post this again with allergy season around the corner.
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Nasal cleansing…what is that??? Nasal cleansing is split into two practices: neti and nasya. Neti is the process of cleansing the nasal passages with salt water using a neti pot; nasya is the practice of lubricating the nasal cavities with oil. The two practices go hand in hand because one disinfects and then the other moisturizes and prevents “unhealthy” mucus from reforming.
WHY CLEANSE YOUR NOSTIRLS???
You are constantly breathing in toxins (car exhaust, air fresheners, smoke, etc.) and debris (pollen, animal dander, dust, microbes, etc.). As a result, your nasal passages, become filled with toxicity and debris and benefit from being cleaned out from time to time (esp. if you have allergies or during cold and flu season). All airborne illnesses begin in the nose, and when you clean your nostrils, you can help prevent and overcome allergies, sinus infections, colds, and flus.
Here’s how to cleanse:
NETI: Thoroughly wash your neti pot to be sure it’s clean. Add warm, sterile or highly filtered water to your neti pot. Add ¼ tsp. sea salt per ½ cup warm water and stir. Stand over a sink, place the tip of the neti pot spout into your nostril, and tilt your head sideways. The water should enter one nostril and flow out the other. Breathe through your mouth as you work. Use about half of the water in one nostril. Repeat the process with the remaining water and your other nostril. Blow your nose if needed. Now your nasal passages are cleansed.
NASYA: Nasya is the practice of lubricating the nasal passages with oil, and it’s best performed after neti cleansing. The salt water from neti can dry out your nasal passages, which stimulates your body to secrete more mucus to protect the membranes. Nasya lubricates those membranes with oil so your body doesn’t create more mucus. It’s the reason why saline solution alone is not enough; you need both salt water and oil together.
This practice kills bacteria and other debris that cause allergies and illness. You’ll be AMAZED to see how quickly this practice clears up mucus. This practice is not necessary for every day, but I highly recommend it during cold, flu, and allergy season. If you have a sinus infection, allergies, or cold, you can practice up to three times a day.
Where to buy: you can find neti pots and naysa oil at your health food store or online.
Source: “Ayurveda: Idiot’s Guides” by Sahara Rose Ketabi
Disclaimer: I am not a doctor. This is for educational purposes only.
