The 6 Kriyas of Yoga: Secrets of Purification for a Healthy Body and a Clear Mind

Yoga, much more than just a physical practice, is an ancient science aimed at harmonizing body, mind and soul.

It relies on numerous tools to support this transformation, including kriyas, internal purification techniques with powerful effects.

The 6 kriyas, also called Shatkarma or Shatkriyas , are described in classical texts such as the Hatha Yoga Pradipika .

They aim to deeply cleanse the body's various systems in order to promote optimal health, mental clarity and greater availability for spiritual practice.

These purification rituals are part of a global vision of well-being, where breath, body and diet play a fundamental role.

To go further in this holistic approach, you can also discover our articles on the principles of Ayurvedic nutrition and on breathing in yoga, two complementary pillars to the practice of kriyas.

In this article, we will explore in detail the 6 kriyas, how to practice them, and the benefits they can bring on the physical, mental, and spiritual levels.

1. Dhauti: internal cleansing

The term dhauti means "purification." This practice focuses on cleansing the digestive system, particularly the stomach.

Practice methods:

• Vamana Dhauti ( vomit cleansing ): After drinking several glasses of warm, slightly salty water, the practitioner stimulates the gag reflex to expel the water and toxins accumulated in the stomach.
• Danta Dhauti ( cleaning of teeth and tongue ): Using a brush or scraper to clean the teeth, gums and tongue.
• Vastra Dhauti ( cloth cleansing ): This method involves swallowing a long piece of clean cloth (usually cotton) soaked in water to cleanse the stomach.

Benefits:

• Eliminates toxins accumulated in the stomach.
• Improves digestion and reduces gastric disorders.
• Stimulates digestive fire ( agni ), essential for overall health.

2. Basti: Colon cleansing

Basti is a method similar to an enema, used to purify the intestines.

Practice methods:

• The practitioner sits in a squatting position in water (usually in a river or pool).
• Water is introduced into the rectum by contracting the abdominal muscles and then expelled to cleanse the intestines.

Benefits:

• Improves intestinal health and relieves constipation.
• Eliminates toxins from the intestines, promoting better absorption of nutrients.
• Reduces imbalances of doshas ( Vata, Pitta, Kapha in Ayurveda).

3. Neti: cleansing the nasal passages

Neti is a popular technique for cleansing the nostrils and sinuses.

Practice methods:

• Jala Neti: Using a neti pot (a small teapot-shaped container) filled with warm salt water. The water is inserted into one nostril and out the other.
• Sutra Neti: A thin, flexible thread is inserted into one nostril, passed through the throat, and then withdrawn through the mouth.

Benefits:

• Improves breathing by clearing nasal passages.
• Relieves allergies, colds and sinus problems.
• Promotes better concentration by increasing oxygen flow to the brain.

4. Nauli: abdominal massage

Nauli is a dynamic technique that involves rolling the abdominal muscles to stimulate the internal organs.

Practice methods:

• The practitioner stands with feet apart and leans slightly forward.
• After a complete exhalation, the abdominal muscles are contracted and moved laterally or in a circle.

Benefits:

• Strengthens abdominal muscles and improves digestion.
• Stimulates internal organs, especially the liver, kidneys and stomach.
• Balances energies in the body and soothes digestive disorders.

5. Kapalabhati: cleaning the skull

Kapalabhati , meaning "shining skull," is a rapid, forceful breathing technique.

Practice methods:

• In a seated position, the practitioner inhales gently, then exhales quickly and forcefully, contracting the abdominal muscles.
• The cycles are repeated several times, with a focus on exhalation.

Benefits:

• Cleanses the lungs and airways.
• Increases oxygen intake, improving mental focus.
• Energizes the body and soothes the mind.

6. Trataka: concentration through the gaze

Trataka is a meditative practice of staring at a point or flame to calm the mind and improve concentration.

Practice methods:

• The practitioner sits comfortably and stares at a candle flame or a point on a wall without blinking.
• When the eyes begin to water, they are closed to meditate on the afterimage.

Benefits:

• Improves vision and strengthens eye muscles.
• Soothes the mind and improves concentration.
• Promotes a deep meditative state.

7. General Precautions for Practicing Kriyas

1. Consultation with an expert: Kriyas should be learned under the supervision of an experienced teacher to avoid any risks.
2. Health conditions: Some techniques, such as Dhauti or Nauli , may not be suitable for people with specific health problems (ulcers, hypertension, etc.).
3. Respect individual rhythm: Start slowly and progress gradually to avoid injury or overexertion.

8. The overall benefits of the 6 kriyas

Kriyas offer many benefits both physical, mental and spiritual:

1. Detoxification: They cleanse internal systems, allowing better circulation of energies.
2. Respiratory and Digestive Health: Kriyas strengthen the digestive system, lungs, and respiratory system.
3. Mental Clarity: By eliminating physical and mental toxins, they promote concentration, memory and inner peace.
4. Preparation for Meditation: By balancing energies, kriyas prepare the body and mind for deeper meditative practices.

Conclusion

The 6 Kriyas are powerful and profound techniques for purifying the body and mind.

Although they require practice and patience, their benefits are incomparable for those who wish to explore yoga in its most authentic form.

If you're considering incorporating them into your routine, make sure you do so with the guidance of a qualified instructor and in an environment conducive to practice.

With regular practice, these kriyas can transform not only your physical health, but also your mental and spiritual well-being.