Neti

Neti is the yogic system of nasal cleansing — body-cleansing techniques intended mainly to clean the air passages in the head. Because free, clear nasal breathing is essential for pranayama, Neti is an important preparatory practice. Its common form is Jala Neti, cleansing with water.

Jal Neti — technique

Jal Neti is used by yogis to stay free of disease and, above all, to keep the breath clear and unblocked for their yogic practices.

1. In a feeding cup or a small pot with a nozzle (spout), take tepid (lukewarm) water with a little salt added to it.
2. Insert the nozzle into one of the nostrils.
3. Bend the head a little sideways and pour the water slowly into that nostril so that it flows through the nasal cavity and out of the other nostril.
4. Then repeat the same procedure with the other nostril. In this way the nasal cavity is cleansed with water.

Benefits

• Jal Neti removes excess mucus and impurities from the nose.
• It reduces inflammatory conditions and builds up resistance.
• It helps in preventing cold and cough.
• If practised daily, it can help cure headache and migraine.

Why it works

The nasal passages are lined with a thin mucous membrane; tepid salt water matches the body's own salinity, so it clears mucus, dust and allergens from this membrane without irritating or stinging it the way plain water would. This is also why Neti is recommended as preparation for pranayama — clear nasal passages make slow, silent nostril breathing, needed for techniques like Anulom-Vilom, possible.

Precautions

• Always use clean, tepid water with the correct, gentle proportion of salt — water that is too hot, too cold, or too salty will irritate the nasal lining.
• People with a severe cold, sinus infection or nasal blockage should practise cautiously or avoid it until the acute condition settles, and seek guidance if unsure. …