Neti Pot - benefits & use

Both Yoga and Ayurveda emphasise that the quality of your breath is vital to your health and well-being. Breathing practices can improve your health and increase longevity. Cleansing and protecting the breathing passages improve the quality of every breath you take.

Jala Neti
Nasal cleansing is a process of cleansing and purifying the nasal passages with a neti pot and a saline solution. This cleanse is a simple and effective way to clean out the debris, pollutants, and allergens that hinder the respiratory system. In India, this traditional procedure is well-known and has been highly valued and practiced for thousands of years.

Nasal Rinse Benefits
Your nose filters 7–8 litres of air that you breathe each minute. That air brings with it particles that irritate the nasal passages and sinuses, and often leads to allergies and sinus infections.

The benefits of nasal cleansing are numerous ! Not only does it ensure the upper respiratory tract remains healthy, but it also washes away any irritants such as pollen or dust, soothes nasal dryness, evacuates any excess mucus and supports the overall wellness of the sinus lining.

In addition, deep breathing through clear nasal passages helps balance the prana, our vital life force within the body. Balanced prana brings the mind and body into harmony, allowing them to work together as a whole.

If you suffer from allergies or repeated sinus infections, this practice can be a very helpful part of your therapy.

How to Use a Neti Pot 
Using a neti pot only takes a few minutes and can even be done by children.

Prepare the Saline Solution
Mix approximately ¼ teaspoon of fine, non-iodized salt (2.5 grms)  into about 1 cup of warm water (1/4 of a litre), until it is fully dissolved. 

It is important that you use sterile water, such as distilled water or water that has been boiled and cooled. Do not use tap water as is.

Once you have the saline solution mixed, pour it into the neti pot.

Neti pots are available at Lotus Room.

The Process of Nasal Cleansing

• Stand in front of a sink. Tilt your head to the left so that one ear is facing down into the sink.
• Insert spout of the neti pot gently into the right nostril and create a seal between the pot and your nostril.
• Raise the nasal rinse cup slowly to develop a steady flow of saline solution through the right  nostril and out the left nostril.
• During the process, breathe through your mouth.
• Upon completion of the process, exhale gently through the nose several times to clear the nasal passages.
• Tilt your head the other side and repeat the process.

Completion of the Process
It is beneficial to do some simple, gentle exhalations through both of your nostrils after completion.

Cleaning Your Neti Pot
After use, simply wash out the neti pot with warm water and mild soap.

---

Subscribe to our monthly 'Awareness' newsletter to receive more inspiration in your inbox.

Yoga and Meditation sessions are held at the Lotus Room - if you are unable to join us in person, we welcome you to  participate virtually in our Online Studio.

Discover how you can get the support that you need to navigate shifts in your life through Yoga-Life Coaching. 

Contact Jenny for more information.