Shatkarma is the sanskrit word in Yoga refer the six traditional cleansing practices mentioned in classical texts of yoga like the Hatha Yoga Pradipika and Gheranda Samhita. The word comes from “Shat” meaning six and “Karma” meaning action or technique.
Neti (Nasal cleansing)
Dhauti (Upper digestive cleansing)
Nauli (Abdominal churning)
Basti (Yogic enema)
Kapalbhati (Frontal brain cleansing)
Trataka (Candle gazing meditation)
Practicing Shatkarma in Yoga brings harmony to the Doshas, strengthens immunity, improves breath capacity, and prepares the mind for meditation and Yoga.
One of the most widely practiced methods of Shatkarma in Yoga is Neti, especially Jal Neti, which uses warm saline water to cleanse the nasal passages. This yogic cleansing removes dust, pollutants, mucus, and blockages from the sinuses.
Improves breathing capacity
Reduces allergies and sinus issues
Enhances concentration and mental clarity
Because pranayama needs clear nasal pathways, Neti is an essential foundation of Shatkarma in Yoga.
Dhauti involves cleansing the upper digestive tract. It includes variations like Vaman Dhauti (vomiting cleansing) and Vastra Dhauti (cloth cleansing). These practices are advanced and must be learned in a guided environment.
Removes toxins from the stomach
Improves digestion
Helps reduce acidity and gas
Regular practice of Shatkarma in Yoga helps detoxify the entire gastrointestinal system for better health.
Nauli is one of the most dynamic techniques within Shatkarma in Yoga. It involves isolating and rolling the abdominal muscles. While challenging at first, it is one of the best yogic methods for strengthening the core.
Improves digestion and metabolism
Strengthens abdominal muscles
Balances the Manipura (solar plexus) chakra
Practitioners doing Shatkarma in Yoga often say that Nauli awakens internal fire and enhances energy.
Basti is a natural cleansing method used to purify the colon. Traditionally performed using yogic techniques, it is now often practiced using water enemas in a controlled environment.
Removes accumulated waste
Enhances gut health
Balances Vata Dosha
Basti is especially important in Ayurveda and plays a significant role in Shatkarma in Yoga for removing deep-rooted toxins.
One of the most popular practices in modern yoga, Kapalbhati is a powerful breathing-based cleansing technique. It involves active exhalations and passive inhalations.
Cleanses the respiratory system
Reduces stress and improves focus
Boosts lung capacity
Because of its energizing effect, Kapalbhati is considered one of the most accessible forms of Shatkarma in Yoga.
Trataka involves intense concentration by gazing at a fixed point, traditionally a candle flame. This technique purifies the eyes and calms the mind.
Improves eye health
Enhances memory and concentration
Reduces mental restlessness
Trataka is one of the most meditative techniques within Shatkarma in Yoga, promoting inner stillness and clarity.
Today’s world exposes us to pollution, stress, unhealthy food habits, and information overload. Practicing Shatkarma in Yoga helps neutralize these modern challenges by cleansing the organs and energy pathways. When the body is pure, the mind becomes more stable, making advanced practices like pranayama, meditation, and asanas more effective.
Removes toxins from the body
Enhances immunity and digestion
Prepares the body for deeper yoga practices
Improves respiratory health
Balances emotions and reduces anxiety
Enhances pranic (energetic) flow
By incorporating Shatkarma in Yoga, practitioners can experience a more holistic transformation rather than focusing on physical postures alone.
Although these techniques are powerful, they must be learned under guidance especially Dhauti, Basti, and Nauli. Beginners should always practice Shatkarma in Yoga with a certified yoga teacher to ensure safety and correct technique.
To Learn Shatkarma (Yogic Cleansing Techniques)
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