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BASTI
Basti (yogic enema) Technique l: Jala Basti (yogic enema with water)
Stand in pure water up to the navel. A flowing river is an ideal place. Lean forward and place the hands on the knees. Expand the anal sphincter muscles and simultaneously perform uddiyana bandha and nauli in such a way that water is drawn up into the bowels. Hold the water in the bowels for some time and then
expel it through the anus. Benefits: The colon is cleaned and purified. Old stool is
removed and gas expelled. Advanced practitioners of pranayama use basti to cool down the abdominal heat
produced by their practices. Practice note: This technique should be learned under expert
guidance. A short tube may be inserted into the anus by
beginners to make the practice easier. Variation: Benefits of basti may also be obtained by sitting in
cool, fresh water up to the navel and performing ashwini
mudra. Note: The word basti, also widely written as vasti or wasti, is a
general term pertaining to the lower abdomen, belly, pelvis and bladder. The technique is also known as basti karma, karma meaning 'process' or 'technique'.
Technique 2: Sthal Basti (dry yogic enema)
Sit with both legs outstretched in front and perform paschimottanasana. Hold the position and perform ashwini mudra 25 times, sucking air into the bowels. Retain the air for some time and then expel it through the
anus. Benefits: Cleans the colon and removes gas and wind.
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