You might be familiar with Nasya – the Ayurvedic process where medicated nasal oil is administered through the nostrils. This practice helps cleanse the upper respiratory passage by draining out excessive mucous. Nasya is popularly known as one of the five steps of Panchakarma treatment. But, did you know that you can also do Nasya at home as part of your daily routine or Dinacharya?
Benefits of Nasya
Nasya has numerous benefits, primarily targeting the head and neck region. They include the following:
- Cleanses, nourishes and balances the nasal passages, sinuses and related structures
- Promotes mental clarity
- Alleviates sinus congestion
- Improves breathing
- Enhances sensory functions
- Boosts skin and hair health
- Improves eyesight
- Supports overall well-being
How to do Nasya?
Follow these steps to do Nasya the right way:
- Massage face, neck and chest with steaming oil
Remember to apply pressure on sinus areas.
- Steam face, neck and chest with eyes protected
Cover your eyes with a piece of cloth before you apply steam. Eyes are the seat of Pitta and must always be protected from heat, steam, smoke etc.
- Instil 2 drops of Nasya Oil in each nostril
After pouring the oil in each nostril, inhale and keep your face tilted upwards for a few minutes until you feel the Nasya Oil enter your nasal cavity.
- Spit the mucous out
This step is very important.
Which oil should one use to do Nasya?
Using Steaming oil and Nasya oil works best if you are habituated with allergic rhinitis, seasonal cough, cold and other upper respiratory disorders.
If you do not have the above-mentioned symptoms, you can just use 2 drops of Nasya Oil every day as part of your everyday routine, after applying a face oil you like – ideally with a sesame oil base, like Doctor Rekha Ayurveda Glow Oil.
This helps to improve skin texture and glow, cleanses and clears the channels, and improves eyesight and perception of smell.
Who cannot do Nasya?
If you have an active respiratory infection or hearing loss Nasya is not recommended for you. In the case of children, do not do Nasya if they are of less than 7 years of age.
The best time to do Nasya
Ideally, the best time to do Nasya is in the morning – 1 hour before/after shower or 1 hour before/after food.
Incorporating Nasya into your daily routine can help eliminate most of the respiratory ailments you suffer from. By following the above-mentioned steps, you can do Nasya at your home without any help.
If you are looking for a solution for your health conditions, book a consultation with me and my time. We will provide you with all the support you need and help you heal.