How to Use the Nasal Wash Pot
(also known as the Neti-Pot)

Using the nasal wash twice a day helps the body stay calmer and healthier. Breathing through a nose that is full of crusty mucus (sorry) and dust particles and pollution is not very helpful. When you take warm salt water (that is as warm as your body temperature and is as salty as your tears) into a pot and slowly pour it from one nostril to the other, then "Voila" you have a clean, happy nose.

Allergies will start to recede with regular use of the nasal wash. Your breathing exercises will have a much greater effect on your nervous system and your meditation.

You will find it much easier to quiet your mind by breathing slowly through a clean nose.

If exposure to dust or pollen can bother you for hours, rinse your nose clean. If you do not rinse out your nose when you are loaded with dust then the tear glands start doing their job. In a few seconds, you will have watery eyes and soon a watery, drippy nose. The body will help clean your nose, but the nasal wash is faster and leaves you with clear, sparkling eyes.

 
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What materials do I need for a nasal wash?

Nasal wash pot, salt (preferably without iodine, such as Kosher salt), cup for mixing warm salt water (optional), stirring rod or spoon.

Water should be as salty as your own tears, and about body temperature. Add about 1/4 teaspoon of pure table salt per cup of water. Kosher salt does not contain iodine and other additives, so it is preferable. Always taste to verify that the saltiness and the warmth are very similar to your own tears. If you experiencing any discomfort, then most likely you are using too much or too little salt.

How often should I use a nasal wash?

Once or twice daily or as needed,
use your own judgment and awareness

What are the benefits of using a nasal wash?

1. Cleans mucus membranes in nasal passages • removes excess mucus • removes dried mucus crusts, debris, dust • allows nose to function optimally
2. Stimulates secretion of nasal mucus
3. Soothes nasal tissues
4. Increases blood flow to nasal region, may help eyesight
5. May help relieve chronic sinusitis and "hay-fever" symptoms

Nasal Wash Techniques

The amount of airflow that enters your nostrils alternates back and forth between the two nostrils every 90-120 minutes. This natural body rhythm may be new information for you. To verify this fact, simply check your nostrils right now and see which nostril allows more airflow. One to 2 hours later, re-check this and notice that it has switched. The nostril that is the most open is referred to as the "active" nostril.

When using the nasal wash, always start by using the "active" nostril with your nasal wash pot. Always do the nasal wash over a sink where you can also blow your nose. Using the nasal wash is a very simple and easy thing to do. Seeking out direct personal instruction is best, for written instructions may be difficult to visualize. So here is our best attempt to tell you how to do this wonderful cleansing technique.

Side to Side (Nostril to Nostril)

Fill the nasal wash pot with the right amount of warm salt water for you. Insert the spout of the pot into your most active (most open) nostril. Tilt your head sideways, near parallel to the ground with the chin lowered slightly toward the sink. Water passes in through your upper nostril and out the lower nostril. Move the chin up and down until the water flows freely. Reverse sides and repeat.

Nostril to Mouth

The nostril to mouth wash may be done at the same time as side to side wash. The only change you make is to the angle of your head. Tilt your head up and back slightly and now draw the water through your mouth. The forehead should be slightly raised and the chin slightly tilted down so the water passes into the mouth rather than down the throat. Keep adjusting until you find the proper angle. Reverse sides and repeat.

Please NOTE:

When blowing your nose to clear the water and mucus, etc., use quick, forceful exhalations, without closing the nostrils. When using handkerchief or tissue, don't over-blow.

How do I ensure full drainage?

Postures and Breathing Exercises to Insure Full Drainage
Use the following exercises for clearing water from the nostrils and sinuses after the nasal wash; these exercises can be repeated as needed:

1. Side Stretch
Begin standing upright. Raise both arms to the side to shoulder height. Lower the right arm to the right leg, and slowly slide the arm down the leg as you bend the torso to the side, reaching upward with the left arm. Bend as much a you comfortably can, hold briefly then repeat on the apposite side.

2. Opposite Hand to Toe
Begin standing upright, legs shoulder width apart. Raise both arms to the side to shoulder height. As you exhale, lower the right arm to the left toe or leg, and extend the left arm upward to the ceiling. Turn the head to look up at the left arm. Hold briefly, then slowly return to the standing position and repeat on the other side.

3. Forward Bend
Begin standing upright. Bend forward from the waist, until the head is inverted. Hold briefly and then slowly return to the standing position.

4. Kapalabhati
Kapalabhati is an exercise of short, rapid, forceful exhalations followed by passive inhalation. Do 15-30 repetitions of Kapalabhati, gently at first, gradually increasing to full force. DO NOT RESTRICT THE NOSTRILS WHEN EXHALING FORCEFULLY. (Best taught by trained yoga instructor).

Conclusion on Cleansing Techniques

Always contact a health care provider when medical problems arise and you feel you need assistance. Cleansing techniques are a useful tool to prevent illness and should be taught by a fully qualified yoga teacher. Enjoy them and continue to use good common sense in all endeavors.

 
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