Shankh Prakshalan

Introduction

Shankh Prakshalan is an ancient yogic cleansing technique that helps in detoxifying the digestive system. In Sanskrit, "Shankh" means conch shell, and "Prakshalan" means cleansing. Just like water flows through a conch shell, this practice flushes out toxins from the intestines using saltwater and specific yoga postures.

Importance of Shankh Prakshalan

Our digestive system accumulates toxins due to unhealthy eating habits, stress, and a sedentary lifestyle. This can lead to bloating, indigestion, and low energy levels. Shankh Prakshalan helps in:

1.     Removing toxins from the intestines

2.     Improving digestion and metabolism

3.     Boosting immunity and energy levels

4.     Enhancing skin health and overall well-being

The Process of Shankh Prakshalan

This practice involves drinking warm salt water and performing a set of yoga asanas to push the water through the intestines. The process continues until clear water is expelled, indicating a clean digestive tract.

Step-by-Step Process:

1.     Prepare Saline Water: Mix 1 teaspoon of salt in 1 liter of lukewarm water.

2.     Drink Water: Start by drinking two glasses of this water.

3.     Perform Asanas: After drinking, perform the following yoga postures to move the water through the intestines.

4.     Repeat: Continue drinking and performing asanas until clear water is expelled.

5.     Rest and Diet: After cleansing, eat light khichdi (rice and moong dal) with ghee and avoid heavy or spicy foods for the day.

Asanas Used in Shankh Prakshalan

The following asanas help in moving the water through the digestive tract:

1.     Tadasana (Palm Tree Pose):

·      Stand straight, stretch your arms upward, and lift your heels.

·      This helps in opening the digestive tract.

2.     Tiryaka Tadasana (Swaying Palm Tree Pose):

·      Stand with legs apart, stretch arms up, and bend side to side.

·      It stimulates intestinal movement.

3.     Kati Chakrasana (Waist Rotating Pose):

·      Stand with feet apart, twist your waist left and right while swinging your arms.

·      Helps in pushing water forward.

4.     Tiryaka Bhujangasana (Twisting Cobra Pose):

·      Lie on your stomach, lift your torso, and twist to look back.

·      Massages the intestines and aids movement of water.

5.     Udarakarshanasana (Abdominal Massage Pose):

·      Sit in a squat position, twist your knee to the opposite side to press the abdomen.

·      Pushes water towards the intestines for cleansing.

Sanskrit Shloka on Detoxification

शुद्धियान्त्या शुभे भवन्तु स्याताम्
मलमुपेत्य तु तेन जीवनाम्

(One who follows purity, cleanliness, and a disciplined life attains health, prosperity, and longevity.)

Precautions

·      This practice should be done in the morning on an empty stomach.

·      It should be performed under the guidance of an experienced yoga teacher.

·      People with ulcers, high blood pressure, or severe digestive issues should avoid it.

Conclusion

Shankh Prakshalan is a powerful detoxification method that cleanses the digestive system and promotes overall health. When done correctly, it rejuvenates the body, mind, and spirit. Practice it periodically to maintain good health and vitality!