Shatkarma- Daily Detox

Shatkarma refers to the six classical purification practices of Hatha Yoga. While we clean the external body every day, these techniques focus on cleansing and regulating the nasal passages, respiratory system, digestive tract, abdominal organs, colon, eyes and mind. Students learn each practice progressively, with close attention to correct technique, timing, frequency, preparation, aftercare and contraindications.

✅ Kapalabhati – Frontal Cleansing: Learn controlled abdominal breathing with active exhalation and passive inhalation to support respiratory function, alertness and preparation for pranayama and meditation.

✅ Trataka – Yogic Gazing: Practise external and internal concentration techniques using a candle flame, point or visualised object to develop steadiness, attention and meditative awareness.

✅ Neti – Nasal Cleansing: Learn Jala Neti with correctly prepared lukewarm saline water, together with an introduction to other traditional Neti practices for nasal hygiene and clearer breathing.

✅ Dhauti – Digestive Cleansing: Explore selected traditional cleansing practices for the mouth, tongue and upper digestive tract, including their correct timing, dietary preparation and post-practice care.

✅ Nauli – Abdominal Cleansing: Develop awareness, isolation and controlled movement of the abdominal muscles to massage and stimulate the digestive organs while building abdominal control.

✅ Basti and Shankha Prakshalana – Intestinal Cleansing: Study traditional approaches to cleansing the colon and intestinal tract, including the sequence of water intake, specific asanas, natural elimination and suitable food after practice.

✅ Correct Time and Preparation: Understand which practices require an empty stomach, the most suitable time of day, necessary equipment, water preparation and physical or mental readiness.

✅ Progressive Learning: Begin with accessible preparatory techniques before advancing according to your experience, health, capacity and response to practice.

✅ Benefits and Limitations: Examine the traditional purposes of each practice and develop realistic expectations about how it may support respiratory hygiene, digestion, concentration and preparation for deeper yoga.

✅ Scientific Understanding: Explore relevant anatomy and physiology, including breathing mechanics, nasal irrigation, abdominal pressure, bowel movement, the blink reflex and nervous-system responses.

✅ Safety and Contraindications: Learn when a technique should be modified or avoided, especially during pregnancy or in the presence of hypertension, heart conditions, hernia, ulcers, glaucoma, epilepsy, recent surgery or other health concerns.

✅ Guided Practical Training: Practise appropriate techniques under the supervision of experienced teachers. Advanced cleansing practices require qualified guidance and should not be attempted independently.

Through Shatkarma, students learn that yogic cleansing goes beyond physical purification. It prepares the body, breath and mind for asana, pranayama, meditation and a more disciplined yogic life.