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There should be no force involved. The nozzle should press firmly against the side of the nostril so that no water leakage occurs. Tilt the neti pot in such a way that water runs into the nostril and not down the face. Adjust the body position to enable the water to pass out through the other nostril. When half the water has passed through the nostrils, remove the nozzle from the nostril, centre the head and let the water run out of the nose. Remove any mucus from the nose by blowing gently. Tilt the head to the opposite side and repeat the process, placing the nozzle of the lota in the other nostril. After completing this process the nostrils must be
thoroughly dried. Stage 2: Drying the nostrils 1. Stand erect.
Close the right nostril with the right thumb and breathe in and out through the left nostril 5 to 10 times in quick succession, emphasising exhalation as in kapalbhati pranayama. Repeat through the right nostril, with the left nostril closed.
Perform once more through both nostrils. 2. Bend forward from the waist so that the trunk is
horizontal. Repeat the same process as described above but tilt the head to the right, closing the right nostril. Repeat again, tilting the head to the left and closing the left nostril. Finally, repeat again with the head centred, breathing
through both nostrils. Practice note: This step helps to drain trapped water from
the sinus cavities. 3. Stand erect with the feet apart. Close the right nostril and
exhale forcefully while bending forward rapidly from the waist. Inhale normally while returning to the upright position. Repeat 5 to 10 times. Repeat with the right nostril open and then with both nostrils open.
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