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An essential part of your daily ritual, or Dinacharya, neti and nasya tend to the nasal passages for optimum health.

See instructions from our partner, Carol Nace of Bodhi Ayurveda.

Nasal cleaning - Neti Pot and Nasya

Every day, our nose is bombarded with allergens, dirt, pollution and potential infectious particles. By using a Neti Pot and Nasya oils it clears, supports and balances the nasal pathways, keeping bacterial growth at bay and can reduce congestion due to seasonal allergies. The practice is also said to bring balance and lubrication to the mind/brain. Insufficient use of oils in the nasal pathways can make one dizzy, spacey, and even anxious!

How do I perform neti?

Always follow the instructions provided with the neti pot you purchased. Here are some basic instructions from the Himalayan Institute, a very reputable company that supplies many neti pots on the market.

1.Mix a 1/4 teaspoon of finely ground non-iodized Neti Pot Salt in 8oz of warm sterile water. Use the purest salt available because impurities in the salt can be irritating.

2.Lean forward and turn your head to one side over the sink, keeping the forehead at the same height as the chin, or slightly higher.

3. Gently insert the spout in the upper nostril so it forms a comfortable seal.
4 Raise the Neti Pot gradually so the saline solution flows in through your upper nostril and out of the lower nostril. Breathe through your mouth.
5 When the Neti Pot is empty, face the sink and exhale vigorously without pinching the nostrils.
6 Refill the Neti PotTM and repeat on the other side. Again, exhale vigorously to clear the nasal passages.

Helpful Tips:
Thoroughly clean your Neti Pot after each use. Periodically place it in your dishwasher for a thorough sanitizing. Same as a toothbrush, do not share your Neti Pot with anyone else. Everyone in the household should have their own.
If you experience burning in the nose, it often means you have not used enough salt. Make sure you are using a 1/4 teaspoon salt or a full scoop we include in our salt.
If you experience any discomfort, please discontinue using your neti pot and consult with Carol.

How do I administer the Nasya nasal oil?

Nasya oil should always be applied after the neti pot, not before. Once you have completed the neti pot, clear the nasal passages of any post drip.

Two drops of nasya oil are dripped directly into each nostril by tipping head back and gently squeezing the dropper. Maintain the purity of each oil by not touching the dropper to the nose or any other surfaces. After drops are applied, gently inhale deeply. You may even use your fingers to close off one nostril, inhale slowly and deeply. Alternate to each side a few times.

For more:
Read the full Dinacharya Guide.

Find our Dinacharya Kit and other Ayurvedic wellness products for your individual constitution in our online boutique.

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