Prevent respiratory tract diseases and maintain good health of ears, eyes and throat with Jala Neti. This Hatha Yoga purification practice uses lightly salted water to remove excess mucus and pollution from nasal passages.

Notes

Jala Neti requires a neti pot, pure water and salt.
This technique is not advised for people prone to ear infections or nosebleeds.
Avoid the practice if the nose is completely blocked and after meals.
Practice Jala Neti when necessary, daily or 2 times a week. Prolonged practice is not advisable.

Preparation

Use 1/2 teaspoon of sea salt for 1 cup (250 ml) of lukewarm water. Fill the neti pot with the solution. A painful sensation during the practice indicates too little or too much salt in the water.

Instructions

From a standing or squatting position, lean forward and tilt the head to one side. Breathe through the mouth. Press the nozzle of the neti pot against the upper nostril, tilt the pot, lifting the elbow of the arm that holds the pot. Water should flow out through the lower nostril. When the water has passed, center the head and gently blow the nose.
Tilt the head to the other side and repeat the process.
Keep the mouth open during the practice. If water flows in the mouth or throat, adjust the position of the head.

After completion of the practice, dry the nostrils as follows;
– Stand tall, close one nostril and breathe forcefully out and spontaneously in through the other nostril for 10 times in quick succession. Repeat on the second side and once more through both nostrils.
– Bend forward, torso parallel to floor. Tilt the head to the side, closing the lower nostril and breathe forcefully out and spontaneously in through the other nostril for 10 times in quick succession. Repeat on the second side. Finally center the head and breathe through both nostrils.
– Stand tall, feet apart, close one nostril and exhale forcefully while bending rapidly forward. Inhale while coming upright. Repeat 5 times on each side and 5 times with both nostrils open.