Yoga, beyond the postures, transcends into holistic well-being. At the heart of this journey is Dhauti Kriya—a profound practice focused on cleansing. It goes beyond surface-level purification, delving deep into your digestive system. Dhauti Kriya enables you to feel lighter, healthier, and more attuned to your body.
“In this article, we will unravel what Dhauti Kriya entails, exploring its types, and benefits, and providing a step-by-step guide. Let’s commence this voyage towards a cleaner, healthier you through Dhauti Kriya.”
What is Dhauti – Understanding Dhauti Kriya:
The word ‘Dhauti’ comes from Sanskrit, and it means ‘purification’. It is one of the Shatkarma Kriya which practices in yoga. If you have studied Hatha Yoga, you will find its mention in the scripts, and they seem to hold a very prominent position in it.
Dhauti Kriya is mainly a practice, that involves the cleansing and purification of the esophagus and the stomach. You can compare this kriya, to that of an elephant’s. Gak Karn is the name that goes for it. When elephants face any sort of nausea or discomfort in their abdomen, they put their trunk deep inside the food canal, and suck out the contents. Human beings also demonstrate the same but with external props for support.
The practices within Dhauti involve different methods such as drinking warm saline water, swallowing and regurgitating cloth, and cleansing the mouth, throat, and stomach. The primary purpose is to maintain a healthy digestive system, improve metabolism, and prepare the body for advanced yogic practices. Additionally, Dhauti is believed to have a cleansing effect on the mind and spirit, aligning with the holistic approach of yoga.
You can practice the method if you feel that you have undigested food left in your stomach. It can also help in the removal of mucous from your trachea or respiratory canal. Thus, you may also get relief from food allergies and Asthma as well.
Anatomical Implications:
As listed in many international journals on yoga, Dhauti Kriya is one of the most important kriyas in the yogic discipline. Before you understand or set out to discover the anatomical and physiological implications of Dhauti kriya, you need to understand the role of the isotonic solution, that you have to ingest. Isotonic solution produces a fair amount of cleansing effect, inside the intestines and the gut. It also provides assistance in flushing out the toxins.
Variations – Types of Dhauti Kriya:
So, by now you must have got an idea about the different types of Dhauti kriyas. Find out more about them in detail.
1- Antar Dhauti–
Antar Dhauti, a yogic cleansing technique, translates to “internal cleansing” in Sanskrit. It is an ancient practice that aims to purify the digestive tract and promote overall well-being. Antar Dhauti involves various types of internal cleansing, each targeting different parts of the digestive system. There are sub-categories underneath it.
- Vatsara Dhauti:- Vatsara Dhauti is a yoga practice where you swallow a soft cloth and then bring it back up, kind of like how a calf chews its food. This helps clean your throat and stomach, making it easier for your body to digest food and take in nutrients.
- Varisara Dhauti:- Varisara Dhauti involves drinking a specific quantity of warm saline water and performing specific yoga postures to cleanse the digestive tract. The water is expelled through natural bowel movements, eliminating accumulated toxins and promoting intestinal health.
- Agnisar Dhauti:- The name “Agnisara” comes from the Sanskrit word “agni,” which means “fire.” In this practice, specific movements are performed to create a sensation in the belly akin to a fire, stimulating digestion and boosting metabolic activity.
- Bahiskrita Dhauti:- Bahiskrita Dhauti is a yoga practice where you clean your intestines by holding air in your stomach. The goal is to achieve a pure and healthy digestive system, often described as reaching a divine-like state for your body. This technique helps cleanse your insides and improve your digestion through specific breathing and practices.
2- Danta Dhauti –
Danta Dhauti, a prominent yogic oral hygiene practice, translates to “teeth cleansing” in Sanskrit. It is an ancient technique that focuses on maintaining oral health through a variety of cleansing methods, benefiting both dental hygiene and overall well-being. Danta Dhauti encompasses several types of cleansing techniques, each with its own unique benefits.
There are five sub-categories underneath it.
- Dantamula Dhauti:- which involves the cleansing of the teeth and the gums.
- Jihwa Mula Dhauti:- Jihwa Mula Dhauti is a yogic practice that involves cleaning the root of the tongue.
- Karna Dhauti:- Karna Dhauti is a yoga practice that focuses on cleansing the ears. This technique involves using specific methods to maintain ear hygiene, remove excess earwax, and promote ear health. It’s essential for auditory well-being and overall ear care.
- Kapala Randhra Dhauti:- Kapala Randhra Dhauti is a yoga technique that helps clean your nose and sinuses. You use warm salty water to gently rinse your nostrils, removing mucus and dirt. This keeps your nose healthy and helps you breathe better. The term “Kapala Randhra” comes from Sanskrit, where “kapala” means skull, and “randhra” means hole or passage.
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3- Hrid Dhauti –
Hrid Dhauti is a yogic cleansing practice centered around the heart, aiming to maintain cardiovascular health and enhance overall well-being. The term “Hrid” refers to the heart in Sanskrit, emphasizing the focus of this technique on heart-related cleansing and maintenance.
There are several categories under it.
- Vastra Dhauti (Calf’s Intestine Cleansing): Vatsara Dhauti involves mimicking the actions of a calf chewing cud by swallowing and regurgitating a soft cloth. You must swallow a long piece of soft cloth made from natural fabrics, and allow it to travel internally through the esophagus and stomach. When you take it out, it draws all the dirt and impurities with itself.
- Varisara Dhauti (Selective Digestive Tract Purification): Varisara Dhauti consists of drinking warm saline water and practicing specific yoga postures to cleanse the digestive tract. This aids in removing accumulated toxins and promoting intestinal health, indirectly benefiting heart health through improved digestion.
- Kunjal Kriya (Stomach and Esophagus Cleansing): This entails drinking a large amount of saline water and performing specific movements to induce vomiting. This helps clean the stomach and esophagus, reducing the burden on the heart due to digestive issues.
- Anulom Vilom (Alternate Nostril Breathing): Focuses on balancing the two brain hemispheres and regulating blood pressure, indirectly benefiting heart health by optimizing oxygen flow and reducing stress.
4- Moola Dhauti –
This technique involves the cleansing of the lower digestive tract, particularly the rectum and anus, using specific practices to maintain cleanliness and promote health in this area.
5- Laghoo Shankhaprakshalana –
It is a yogic colon cleansing mechanism, which is a shorter version of the original Varisara Dhauti. It involves drinking a few glasses of lukewarm water and then performing asanas. You need to repeat these, three to four times. A bowel movement is basically induced as a part of the process.
6- Vyaghra Kriya –
It is one of the popular techniques under the same category, where the cleansing of the digestive tract takes place. It mainly involves the vomiting of undigested food or partially digested food, after a gap of three hours. It is believed that a tiger also eliminates stale food left in its stomach, in the very same manner.
Precautions and Contraindications of Dhauti Kriya:
Dhauti Kriya, a set of yogic cleansing practices, offers numerous health benefits when performed correctly and safely. However, it is crucial to adhere to precautions and consider contraindications to ensure the practice remains safe and effective for individuals. Here are important precautions and contraindications to keep in mind:
Precautions:
- Expert Guidance: Always learn Dhauti Kriya under the guidance of an experienced and qualified yoga instructor. Proper instruction and supervision are vital to ensure correct technique and prevent potential injuries.
- Individualization: Understand that the techniques may affect individuals differently. Consider personal health conditions, flexibility, and overall fitness level when performing any form of Dhauti Kriya.
- Gradual Progression: Begin with gentle practices and gradually progress to more advanced techniques. Pushing too hard or rushing through the stages can lead to strain or injury.
- Hydration and Nutrition: Maintain proper hydration and adequate nutrition before and after performing Dhauti Kriya. Dehydration or lack of nourishment can be detrimental to the body during these practices.
- Physical Comfort: Ensure a comfortable and calm environment for performing the techniques. Loose clothing and a peaceful setting contribute to a successful practice.
- Awareness of Body Signals: Listen to your body and respect its signals. If you experience discomfort, pain, dizziness, or any adverse effects during the practice, stop immediately and consult a healthcare professional.
Contraindications:
- Pregnancy and Menstruation: Women who are pregnant or menstruating should avoid certain forms of Dhauti Kriya, as it may put unnecessary stress on the body and the reproductive system.
- Recent Abdominal Surgery: Individuals who have undergone recent abdominal surgery should refrain from Dhauti Kriya, as it could interfere with the healing process and cause complications.
- Severe Health Conditions: Those with severe health conditions such as hypertension, hernia, ulcers, heart conditions, or epilepsy should avoid these practices unless under expert medical supervision.
- Inflammatory Bowel Disorders: People with conditions like Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis should avoid aggressive forms of Dhauti Kriya, as it may aggravate their condition.
- Chronic Illness: Individuals with chronic health issues should consult their healthcare provider before attempting any form of Dhauti Kriya to determine its suitability for their condition.
It’s essential to prioritize safety and well-being when engaging in any yogic practice, including Dhauti Kriya. Consulting a healthcare professional before incorporating these practices, especially if you have underlying health concerns, is highly recommended.
Benefits Of Dhauti Kriya-
The yoga texts and experiments on Dhauti kriya suggest various benefits on the human body. There is a lot of scientific claims that proves that this kriyas works.
- You will get relief from various types of phlegm which block the passage of air inside the air passage, from cough, asthma, skin ailments, and spleen ailments as well.
- You can also get rid of several teeth diseases.
- You will also be able to get rid of obesity, as the body gets to flush out all its toxins.
- You can also get relief from joint disorders and arthritis, which happens due to inflammation. Inflammation occurs when the body is not able to get rid of the impurities.
- Your digestion and elimination process also improves manifold.
Procedure of Dhauti Kriya – Step-by-Step Guide for Safe Practice
Dhauti Kriya is a powerful yogic cleansing technique designed to detoxify the digestive system. It should be practiced with caution and under expert guidance. Below is a step-by-step guide for performing Dhauti Kriya safely:
1. Preparations Before Dhauti Kriya
- Practice early in the morning on an empty stomach.
- Drink lukewarm saline water (around 1-2 liters) to aid in the cleansing process.
- Sit in a comfortable position and take deep breaths to relax your body.
2. Types and Steps for Dhauti Kriya
- Antar Dhauti (Internal Cleansing)
- Involves swallowing a long, clean cotton cloth soaked in lukewarm water and pulling it out slowly after a few minutes to remove toxins.
- Alternatively, one can drink large amounts of warm water and induce vomiting (Vaman Dhauti).
- Danta Dhauti (Oral & Teeth Cleansing)
- This includes cleaning the teeth, tongue, gums, and throat using herbal sticks or fingers to remove bacteria and toxins.
- Hrid Dhauti (Chest Cleansing)
- Practiced by swallowing and expelling water or using a catheter-like tube to cleanse the esophagus.
- Moola Dhauti (Rectal Cleansing)
- This involves cleansing the rectum and intestines using warm water or specific yogic techniques like Basti Kriya.
3. Post-Practice Care
- Rest for at least 30 minutes after the practice.
- Follow up with a light, easily digestible meal like khichdi or fruit.
- Avoid practicing if you have digestive disorders, ulcers, or heart conditions.
By practicing Dhauti Kriya properly, you can experience deep detoxification and improved digestive health.
Dhauti Kriya Benefits – Why This Yogic Practice is Essential for Detoxification
Dhauti Kriya is one of the six Shatkarma (yogic cleansing techniques) that help purify the body and prepare it for higher spiritual practices. Below are some major benefits of Dhauti Kriya:
1. Improves Digestive Health
- Removes toxins, undigested food, and excessive mucus from the stomach and intestines.
- Helps in reducing acidity, bloating, constipation, and indigestion.
2. Detoxifies the Respiratory System
- Hrid Dhauti cleanses the chest and esophagus, helping clear phlegm and improving breathing.
- Beneficial for individuals suffering from asthma or respiratory congestion.
3. Boosts Energy & Vitality
- A cleansed digestive system enhances nutrient absorption, leading to higher energy levels and better metabolism.
4. Enhances Mental Clarity
- Reducing toxins in the gut leads to a calmer and more focused mind, improving concentration and emotional well-being.
5. Aids in Weight Loss & Metabolism
- Regular practice stimulates digestion and enhances the metabolic rate, supporting healthy weight management.
6. Strengthens Immunity
- By eliminating harmful bacteria and toxins, Dhauti Kriya boosts immunity and prevents gastrointestinal infections.
Dhauti Kriya is a powerful technique to achieve physical, mental, and spiritual well-being. However, it should always be practiced with care and proper guidance.
How Often Should You Practice Dhauti Kriya? – Best Frequency for Maximum Benefits
The frequency of Dhauti Kriya depends on your body type, health conditions, and experience level. Below are general guidelines for safe and effective practice:
For Beginners:
- Start with milder variations like Danta Dhauti (oral cleansing) or Vaman Dhauti (water cleansing).
- Practice once a week or every two weeks under expert supervision.
For Intermediate Practitioners:
- Once the body adapts, you can practice Antar Dhauti or Hrid Dhauti once a month for deeper detoxification.
For Advanced Practitioners:
- Advanced yogis may practice Dhauti Kriya once every 15 days or as needed.
- Practices like Laghoo Shankhaprakshalana (intestinal cleansing) should only be performed a few times a year.
Precautions:
- Avoid daily practice as excessive cleansing can strip the digestive tract of essential bacteria and cause weakness.
- Pregnant women, people with heart disease, ulcers, or digestive disorders should avoid Dhauti Kriya.
By following a safe and balanced frequency, Dhauti Kriya can be a powerful tool for maintaining long-term health and wellness.
Conclusion
Thus, you can practice Dhauti kriya, which is one of the most important Shatkarma kriyas. It will lead to good health, inside out. However, it is best to practice it under the guidance of Yoga and Ayurveda experts.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Dhauti Kriya, and why is it important?
Dhauti Kriya is a yogic cleansing technique that removes toxins from the digestive and respiratory system, promoting better digestion and overall health.
What are the different types of Dhauti Kriya?
The main types of Dhauti Kriya include Antar Dhauti, Danta Dhauti, Hrid Dhauti, Moola Dhauti, Laghoo Shankhaprakshalana, and Vyaghra Kriya. Each variation has unique cleansing benefits.
How to perform Dhauti Kriya safely?
The procedure of Dhauti Kriya varies for each type, but it generally involves controlled techniques using water, air, or specific yogic methods under expert supervision.
What are the benefits of Dhauti Kriya?
The benefits of Dhauti Kriya include improved digestion, toxin removal, enhanced respiratory health, and better gut function. It also helps in reducing acidity and detoxifying the body.
Are there any risks or contraindications of Dhauti Kriya?
Yes, people with ulcers, high blood pressure, heart disease, pregnancy, or digestive disorders should avoid Dhauti Kriya. It should always be practiced under the guidance of a trained yoga instructor.
How often should one practice Dhauti Kriya?
The frequency of Dhauti Kriya depends on individual needs and experience. Beginners should practice under expert supervision, and it is generally recommended to do it once in a while rather than daily.
Is Dhauti Kriya safe for beginners?
Yes, but only under expert guidance. Beginners should start with milder forms like Danta Dhauti (teeth cleansing) and gradually progress to other types.
How does Dhauti Kriya compare to other Shatkarma techniques?
Dhauti Kriya primarily focuses on cleansing the digestive and respiratory system, while other Shatkarma techniques like Neti (nasal cleansing) and Basti (colon cleansing) focus on different areas of detoxification.
Can Dhauti Kriya help with acidity and bloating?
Yes, Dhauti Kriya is known to reduce acidity, bloating, and indigestion by removing excess mucus, undigested food particles, and toxins from the stomach and intestines.
Where can I learn Dhauti Kriya in Rishikesh?
Many yoga schools in Rishikesh, including Hari Om Yoga Vidya School, offer courses on traditional yogic cleansing techniques like Dhauti Kriya as part of their 100-hour, 200-hour, and 300-hour yoga teacher training programs.
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