Poorna sankha-prakshalana
Poorna Shankhaprakshalana, also known as the Complete Yogic Colon Cleanse or simply Shankhaprakshalana, is a yogic technique aimed at thoroughly cleansing the entire gastrointestinal tract, particularly the colon. It’s a more comprehensive and elaborate version compared to Laghoo Shankhaprakshalana. Here’s a detailed overview of Poorna Shankhaprakshalana:
- Technique (Poorna Shankhaprakshalana):
- Preparation: Start on an empty stomach, preferably in the morning. Prepare a saline solution by dissolving about two teaspoons of non-iodized salt in warm water (around 6-8 glasses or 1.5-2 liters). Ensure the salinity is similar to body fluids.
- Drinking the Saline Solution: Drink the prepared saline solution, gradually and in a relaxed manner, within a short period (usually within 30-40 minutes). The solution is consumed in parts, alternated with specific yoga poses.
- Yoga Poses (Asanas): After drinking a portion of the saline solution, a series of specific yoga poses (asanas) are performed. Common poses include Tadasana (Mountain Pose), Tiryaka Tadasana (Swaying Palm Tree Pose), Kati Chakrasana (Standing Spinal Twist), Tiryaka Bhujangasana (Twisting Cobra Pose), and Udarakarshanasana (Twisting Pose).
- Repeating the Process: The process of drinking the saline solution and performing the yoga poses is repeated until clear water is expelled during bowel movements. This cycle may be repeated 2-3 times.
- Hydration and Rest: After completing the cleansing, it’s important to drink plenty of warm water and rest for a while.
- Salient Features:
- Comprehensive Cleansing: Poorna Shankhaprakshalana aims at a complete and thorough cleansing of the gastrointestinal tract, including the entire colon.
- Structured Approach: The practice follows a specific sequence of consuming saline solution and performing yoga poses, ensuring a systematic cleansing process.
- Benefits:
- Colon Cleansing: Aims to cleanse the entire gastrointestinal tract, particularly the colon, to remove accumulated toxins and waste material.
- Digestive Health: May aid in improving digestion and promoting a healthier gastrointestinal system.
- Detoxification: Supports detoxification of the body by flushing out impurities and waste.
- Stimulates Digestive Fire (Agni): Poorna Shankhaprakshalana is believed to stimulate Agni, the digestive fire, promoting better digestion and absorption of nutrients.
- Feeling of Lightness: Practitioners often report feeling lighter, rejuvenated, and more energetic after completing Poorna Shankhaprakshalana.
Poorna Shankhaprakshalana is a comprehensive cleansing technique and should be practiced with caution and under proper guidance, especially for individuals with specific health conditions or medical concerns. It’s advisable to learn this technique from an experienced yoga instructor to ensure safe and effective practice.