Part 2 Bastis (2)
Basti is an important Shatkarma, a yogic purification, intended to clean the lower abdomen, especially the colon. These are two types:
- Jala Basti (Water Basti): Utkatasana is performed inside the water upto the navel level, when anus sphincter muscles are contracted and dilated (ashwini mudra) so that water enters inside the colon. This water is ejected after some time, just like one does in enema. By this kriya, urinary disorders, digestive disorders and gas like flatulence are cured. Gheranda Samhita says that by doing this kriya, one’s body becomes as beautiful as that of the God Cupid.
- Sthalam Basti /Suska (dry basti): Paschmittonasana is performed and ashwini mudra is performed. Constipation and flatulence is cured with this kriya and digestion is improved.
Basti is derived from vasti which means syringe.