Basti kriya: step-by-step instructions for intestinal cleansing and detoxification

Basti kriya: step-by-step instructions for intestinal cleansing and detoxification

The human gut is often called the second brain, and for good reason: the intestines contain a powerful network of neurons that form their own nervous system, comparable in complexity to the spinal cord. There is a constant exchange of information with the brain, and the intestinal microbiota, consisting of billions of microorganisms, actively participates in this exchange, influencing both cognitive functions and mood. In addition, the intestine is a key part of the body's immune system. Together, these facts serve as good motivation to adopt a healthy lifestyle and engage in regular detoxification. There are countless methods for cleansing the gut, but in this article we will discuss one specific yogic method known as Basti kriya — its varieties, benefits, and proper execution technique.

It is difficult to overestimate the measures taken to detoxify the body, and the intestines in particular. Among the yogic shatkarmas, the six cleansing practices of the body, is Vari-basti — a category of procedures aimed at cleansing the large intestine. Among them is the practice of Basti kriya, said to offer the following positive effects:

• Cleansing of the intestines. Basti kriya helps eliminate stagnant bile, mucus, and toxins from the large intestine; otherwise, chronic impurities are absorbed into the bloodstream, thereby poisoning the entire body.
• Normalization of digestion. The procedure improves the tone of the digestive organs, stimulates the functioning of the liver and pancreas, helps relieve and prevent constipation, and eliminates excessive gas formation.
• Prevention of diseases. It helps in the treatment of diseases affecting the liver, gallbladder, joints, hemorrhoids, prostatitis, and inflammation of the appendages. It additionally eliminates skin diseases.
• Strengthening of overall health. Basti kriya improves blood circulation and boosts immunity.
• Improvement of psycho-emotional wellbeing. The practice promotes mind tranquility, stabilizes the nervous system, relieves anxiety, and improves sleep.
• Cleansing of energy channels. Thanks to this procedure, Apana Vayu is directed upward and prana begins to circulate freely throughout the body.

There are two main types of Basti kriya:

1. Jala Basti. It consists of drawing water through the anus in order to cleanse the large intestine. This practice is considered complex and advanced, so it is necessary to consult with a qualified instructor before attempting to gain experience in it. Jala Basti is intended for the removal of toxins and mucus from the digestive tract. It must be performed with caution, as an incorrect approach may be dangerous to health.
2. Pavana Basti or Sthala Basti. This variety of Basti involves drawing air into the rectum through the anus and then expelling it. A specialized tube is required to perform this practice. The purpose of the practice is similar to the previous type of Basti: it also requires consultation with a specialist and preliminary preparation.

In addition, Sahaja Basti kriya is distinguished as a practice that's suitable for beginners. Below we will consider in more detail the instructions for performing this procedure.

Sahaja Basti kriya can be divided into several stages:

1. Preparation. For several days before the procedure, it is necessary to follow a specific diet: switch to light plant-based foods and strictly abstain from alcohol. Basti should be performed on an empty stomach, ideally in the early morning hours from 4:00 to 6:00 AM. It is also important to prepare in advance all the ingredients for the solution: for every 1.5 liters of boiled water, add 1 tablespoon of salt and the juice of one lemon (only necessary for initial sessions). The total amount of the solution may range from 1.5 to 3 liters, depending on the volume of your gastrointestinal tract. The temperature of the solution should be between 35—37 degrees Celsius and the room reserved for the practice should be warm and comfortable. A yoga mat should also be prepared in advance to perform the sequence of asanas.
2. Execution. On the day of the practice, drink the prepared solution, lie down on the mat, and perform Viparita Karani mudra for 3—5 minutes, after which you'll likely feel the water flowing from the stomach into the intestines. Next, perform nauli or Agnisara-dhauti — a step that should be repeated after every asana. Next, transition into Mayurasana (or Dhanurasana, if you want a replacement) and repeat nauli or Agnisara. Perform Bhujangasana (three approaches at a measured pace), repeat nauli or Agnisara, and sit in Paschimottanasana for three breathing cycles. After coming out, perform nauli or Agnisara again. Lastly, move onto Pavanamuktasana: press first your right thigh against the abdomen, then the left, and then both, holding this position for 3-4 minutes. Afterwards, empty your bowels. If the urge arises earlier, you must go to the toilet immediately rather than waiting to complete the whole practice. As a final stage, you may perform Kunjala. More details about this technique can be read here.
3. Post-procedure measures. Rest in Savasana for 10-15 minutes, then take a shower. Two hours after the procedure, you may eat rice, oatmeal porridge prepared with water, or other plain food without salt and spices.

Each body is unique. For some, the urge to empty the intestines may arise before completing a set of asanas, immediately after it, or within 1.5 hours of the practice. Strong toxin accumulation in the physical body may prevent bowel movements altogether. In such cases, a comprehensive approach with longer preparation and possibly intermittent fasting (if approved by a doctor beforehand) is necessary. On average, it's recommended to practice Sahaja Basti once every two months or, for those with frequent constipation, 1—2 times per month. The ideal time to begin the practice is summer.

The numerous beneficial effects of Basti kriya make it an appealing practice to learn. However, it is essential to know the contraindications of this kriya before beginning practice.

• Pregnancy and menstruation.
• Children under 12 years of age.
• Acute infections of the abdominal cavity and pelvic organs.
• Exacerbation of chronic, acute digestive disorders (acute gastritis, peptic ulcer disease, dysentery, appendicitis).
• Heart disease and high blood pressure.
• Malignant tumors of any localization.
• With particular caution in cases of varicose veins, since performance of Basti kriya may aggravate this condition

If you have any doubts about the presence of contraindications, it is essential to consult a physician prior to practice.

As precautionary measures, it is highly advisable to observe good hygiene, prepare and master the practice gradually, and monitor your physical sensations during the practice. The appearance of discomfort and pain is a clear signal to stop the procedure.

Basti, like other shatkarmas, is a foundation in the practice of yoga that helps prepare the body for more serious practices while preserving its proper condition and purity. The mutual influence of the bodily sheaths motivates the cleansing of the gross body channels, one of which is the intestines, and a clean intestine is an important factor for calming the mind. Yoga thus permeates all spheres of life and, in this sense, there are no insignificant details; there is only the question of motivation.

We wish success in studying yoga and mastering the practices of a healthy lifestyle!