Colon Cleanse

The word shankhaprakshalana comes from two words, shankha meaning 'conch' and prakshalana meaning 'to wash completely'. Traditionally this practice was known as varisara dhauti but nowadays it is better known as shankhaprakshalana. This practice is also a part of kaya kalpa, which is an ayurvedic technique for physical purification and transformation.

Benefits:

• Cleans up the gastrointestinal system of its impurities.

• Helps to manage digestive disorders, indigestion, constipation.

• Improves the digestion, enhances metabolism, improves the functions of digestive system, strengthens the organs of digestion.

• Strengthens the immune system, reduces excessive mucus and purifies the blood.

• Recharges the entire pranic body, removes blockages from nadis and purifies all the chakras.

• Harmony of the five pranas is restored and the energy level is restored.

• Mentally, it clams the mind and prepares the way for higher states of consciousness.

• Any sadhana performed after this cleansing practice gives manifold results.

Who should Avoid this practice:

• People with heart or kidney problems
• People with high blood pressure
• If you are on medication for any condition, consult with your doctor before attempting this
• People who are pregnant

Requirements:

Pre-session-

• It is advisable to take a light, semi-liquid meal the night before undertaking this practice
• This practice should be done on an empty stomach
• No asana or physical work should be performed before commencing and no food or beverages should be taken.

In-session-

• Plenty of clean, lukewarm water should be available as well as some extra hot water in case the temperature of the water falls below body temperature.
• Add 2 teaspoons of salt per litre to the water, so that it tastes mildly salty. (Two litres of warm salted water should be prepared).
• The atmosphere should be relaxed and light- hearted, with no apprehension concerning the practice as this can create tension and prevent free bowel movement.

Post-session-

A special food of good quality white rice and pulse, preferably mung dal, cooked with ghee, clarified butter, to be prepared. This preparation is called khichri. The rice and lentils should be cooked together in water until soft. A little turmeric may be added, but no salt. Finally, the clarified butter should be liberally mixed in so that the final preparation is semi-liquid.

It is better that a friend or helper who is not doing the practice prepares the khichri which is to be eaten after a 45 minute rest period, and again later in the day.

Food restrictions:

• All chemically processed, synthetic, pungent, spicy, acidic, rich and meat-based foods must be avoided.
• Avoid pickles, sweets, chocolates, ice cream or soft drinks.
• Milk, buttermilk, yoghurt and all fruits, especially acidic fruits such as lemons, grapefruit, oranges or pineapples are restricted.
• Alcohol, cigarettes, tea, coffee, betel nut preparations, and any other type of intoxicant or drug should also not be taken.

The diet should be as pure, simple and as neutral as possible. It may include foods such as rice, wheat, bread, vegetables with low acidic content, nuts, lentils, soya beans and other pulses.

Pre-Requisites:

• Knowledge of asana practice.
• Loose, comfortable clothing for this practice and relaxation.
• Easy access to a washroom

Props needed (General or in specific sessions):

• Lukewarm water as described above in the 'In Session' section.
• Blanket, eye mask and pillow for sound bath.