Yoga Practice Name
Shankhaprakshalana (शंखप्रक्षालन)
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English Name
Conch Cleansing" or "Intestinal Wash" / "Yogic Colon Cleansing
Description and Steps
Description:
Śaṅkha Prakṣālana is a yogic intestinal cleansing technique that washes the entire digestive tract using warm saline water and specific dynamic āsanas. It helps in detoxification and balancing the digestive system.
Steps:
Preparation:
- Practice early in the morning on an empty stomach.
- Prepare warm saline water (2 tsp of salt per liter).
Drinking Water:
- Drink two glasses of warm saline water quickly.
Asana Sequence (each done 8 times):
- Tadasana (Palm Tree Pose)
- Tiryaka Tadasana (Swaying Palm Tree Pose)
- Kati Chakrasana (Waist Twisting Pose)
- Tiryaka Bhujangasana (Twisting Cobra Pose)
- Udarakarshanasana (Abdominal Twist in Squat)
Repeat:
- Alternate between drinking water and practicing the asanas.
- Continue until you feel the urge to defecate.
Evacuation:
- Visit the toilet as needed.
- Continue the process until clear water passes.
Post-Practice Care:
- Rest completely.
- Eat a light, warm meal like khichdi with ghee.
- Avoid raw, spicy, or cold food for the next 24 hours.
General Benefits
- Cleanses the entire digestive tract, removing toxins and waste.
- Improves digestion and metabolism by stimulating digestive fire (agni).
- Relieves constipation, gas, and acidity, balancing bowel movements.
- Detoxifies the body, promoting a sense of lightness and clarity.
- Enhances skin clarity and glow by purifying the blood.
- Boosts energy levels by reducing sluggishness and lethargy.
- Helps manage lifestyle diseases like diabetes, allergies, and certain skin disorders.
- Promotes mental clarity and emotional balance through internal purification.
- Supports weight management as it helps reset digestive efficiency.
Cautions-Limitations-Contraindications
- Not suitable for beginners: Only for practitioners with prior experience in yoga or cleansing techniques.
- Avoid if pregnant: The practice may strain the abdominal muscles and is not recommended during pregnancy.
- Do not practice during menstruation: It can disturb the menstrual flow or cause discomfort.
- People with heart issues: It can be stressful on the heart, so those with cardiovascular conditions should avoid it.
- Not for individuals with severe dehydration: Shankhaprakshalana involves significant fluid loss, which could worsen dehydration.
- People with digestive disorders: Those with chronic conditions like IBS, ulcers, or Crohn's disease should consult a doctor before attempting this practice.
- Not recommended during fever or illness: The body needs to conserve energy during illness, and this technique may overstrain it.
- Avoid immediately after heavy meals: Wait at least 3-4 hours after eating before attempting this practice.
- Consult a healthcare provider: If you have any doubts about its suitability for your health, seek medical advice before practicing.
Complimentary Practice
- Kapalbhati: A cleansing breath technique that helps detoxify the respiratory system and stimulate abdominal organs.
- Jala Neti: A nasal cleansing technique that prepares the body for deeper cleansing practices by clearing the sinuses and improving breathing.
- Basti Kriya: A yogic enema practice that complements the gut cleansing of Shankhaprakshalana by detoxifying the large intestine.
- Uddiyana Bandha: An abdominal lock that enhances digestion, supports detoxification, and strengthens the abdominal muscles, which can be beneficial after Shankhaprakshalana.
- Pranayama: Breathing exercises like Nadi Shodhana or Ujjayi Pranayama can help regulate the body’s energy flow post-cleansing, aiding relaxation and balance.
- Suryanamaskar: Sun Salutations that help with overall body detox, circulation, and mental clarity, complementing the physical cleansing of the digestive system.
- Dietary Adjustments: Following a light, clean diet of fruits, vegetables, and water after Shankhaprakshalana helps maintain the benefits and ensure proper recovery.
Similar Practices
1.Kunjal Kriya, 2.Neti Kriya, 3.Vaman Dhauti, 4.Kapalbhati, 5.Basti Kriya, 6.Trataka
Practice Keynotes
- Gradual Process: It’s important to follow the practice step-by-step, allowing the body to adjust to the cleansing process gradually.
- Hydration: Ensure proper hydration before and after the practice to prevent dehydration.
- Avoid Force: Do not force the water through the body; it should flow naturally with gentle movement and ease.
- Post-Practice Rest: After completing the practice, rest for a while to let the body absorb the benefits of the cleanse.
- Consistency: Do not overdo the practice; it should be done only occasionally, ideally under the supervision of an experienced teacher or health professional.
- Mindful Breathing: Focus on maintaining steady, calm breathing throughout the practice to aid in the flow of water and keep the body relaxed.
- Body Positioning: Maintain correct posture during each step to facilitate the water flow and avoid strain.
- No Over-exertion: If at any point you feel discomfort, nausea, or dizziness, stop the practice immediately and rest.
- Healthy Diet: Follow a light and balanced diet post-practice, focusing on easily digestible foods to support the cleansing process.
