Kunjala Kriya is a stomach cleansing practice performed with saline solution through induced vomiting
Due to the interconnection of the subtle and material structures in a person's body, yoga includes techniques aimed not only at working with one's subtle layers but also with their physical self. Besides asanas, which occupy a central place in Hatha-yoga, an important role is played by shatkarmas — the six yogic cleansing techniques. One of them is Kunjala-kriya, which cleanses the stomach physically while carrying many other positive effects on the subtle level. In this article, we will discuss in detail the benefits and contraindications of this procedure, as well as recommendations and rules for performing Kunjala.
Kunjala-kriya is the cleansing of the stomach with a salt water solution during the practice of induced vomiting. This ancient yoga technique not only helps cleanse the body of waste and toxins but also positively affects various organs and systems, improves well-being, and keeps the body and mind healthy. It harmonizes the Pitta and Kapha doshas.
More about the benefits of cleansing the body with Kunjala-kriya:
- Cleansing of the upper part of the gastrointestinal tract. The primary focus of Kunjala is cleansing the stomach of food residues, mucus, excess bile, and acid.
- Improved digestion and normalization of weight. Regular practice of Kunjala-kriya helps normalize the production of gastric acid, thereby improving digestion and the absorption of nutrients from food. Proper digestion, in turn, helps to reduce weight and keep it stable.
- Impact on the respiratory system. The practice helps strengthen the diaphragm, reduce coughing, and eliminate symptoms of bronchitis, asthma, and bad breath.
- Prevention and treatment of skin diseases. Digestive disorders and the presence of wastes and toxins in the body often lead to skin allergic reactions and rashes. Kunjala-kriya contributes to the prevention of skin diseases by removing these wastes.
- Mental and emotional health. This practice can help one eliminate anxiety, tension, and depression, stabilizing their mood and psycho-emotional state.
- Energetic renewal. Kunjala helps eliminate energy blocks in the body, giving a feeling of renewal and energy flow. It stimulates the Manipura, Anahata, and Vishuddha chakras and removes obscurations in these chakras such as overeating, greed, attachment, jealousy, and shame. As a result, energy is raised to the upper energy centers.
Contraindications
The numerous positive effects of Kunjala-kriya are not a reason to approach it lightly; it's important to consider the contraindications to the practice and to perform your initial sessions under the guidance of a specialist. Before performing kriya, you must consult a doctor to rule out any possible contraindications such as:
- heart diseases and high blood pressure;
- hernias of any localization;
- digestive system diseases (ulcers and abdominal tumors, gastritis, pancreatitis, increased acidity);
- post-operative recovery period;
- exacerbation of chronic diseases of the upper gastrointestinal tract, elevated body temperature, or poor health;
- pregnancy or menstruation.
Preparation for Kunjala-kriya
Before performing the kriya itself, you must go through a preparatory stage, following a diet for several days prior to the practice to reduce the strain on the gastrointestinal tract. It is also important to exclude any heavy foods, alcohol, and caffeine during this time. Choose a convenient day and time for the practice in advance, preferably in the morning on an empty stomach. Another important recommendation is to establish a positive mindset for the practice: calmness and confidence will help perform the kriya easily and effectively.
Before performing the kriya itself, a preparatory stage is necessary, which involves following a diet for several days prior to the practice
The technique for performing Kunjala-kriya can be broken down into several stages:
- Prepare 2—3 liters (about 70-100 oz) of clean warm water (approximately body temperature) for the first experience, adding one teaspoon of salt for every liter. Experienced practitioners may use a larger volume of liters to address individual energetic problems of the body. Consider the location and setting for the practice: practice in the bathroom if possible, but if only a regular room is available, prepare a bucket/basin or another similar container to use in place of a sink. Ensure a calm atmosphere so that nothing and no one disturbs your procedure.
- Quickly drink several glasses of the prepared solution without delay so that the water does not have time to descend into the intestines. After this, you should experience a feeling of absolute fullness of the stomach, as if there is no space in it at all. This is a sure signal to drink the last glass and proceed to the next stage. Usually, 5—6 glasses are consumed.
- The next stage will be the actual vomiting practice. To do this, tilt the torso parallel to the ground while keeping your head above the sink, basin, or bucket, place your fingers on the root of the tongue, and press gently to induce the gag reflex. Next, allow the water to be expelled from the stomach. If the water does not come out completely, stimulate the root of the tongue with your fingers again. Repeat until all of the liquid comes out. After the water, some amount of bile may come out; this is a sure sign to complete the practice. The first attempts at the procedure may cause difficulties, but as you master Kunjala-kriya, the process will become clear and simple. Some schools of yoga recommend using the fist of the free hand to press on the abdomen so that the water from the stomach does not pass further into the intestines.
- This kriya increases Pitta-dosha and enhances your digestive fire (agni). If heartburn occurs during the practice, it's recommended to stop practice for at least a week. During expulsion, the water may have a bitter or sour taste; in this case, you must drink another 1—2 glasses of the solution and repeat the vomiting practice. The water may also contain remnants of undigested food, brown/yellow particles, or mucus; as you gain experience in the practice and start to cleanse your body, the water will come out as clear as the solution that you drank. If you were unable to expel the water through vomiting, do not worry; over time, everything will work out and the water will come out naturally.
Kunjala-kriya is also known as Vamana-dhauti. It is practiced, among other things, as the final stage of Shankha-prakshalana.
Recommendations after practice
When the practice is completed, it is best to abstain from food for the next half hour. You may then prepare a light breakfast such as kitchari (a dish made from rice and mung beans/lentils) or sweet rice porridge. Avoid coarse foods so that the delicate and vulnerable mucous membrane stays undamaged after practice; keep your food soft, warm, and slightly oily. After kriya, it's also important to exclude coffee and strong tea as well as any use of tobacco and alcohol. A shower or bath can be taken 2—3 hours after Kunjala.
Although Kunjala-kriya seems like a complicated and unpleasant technique at first, it becomes clear and simple as you master it, allowing you to derive maximum benefit for your physical and subtle bodies. To ensure a comfortable learning process and predictable results, your first attempts should be performed under the supervision of an experienced instructor. It is important to plan the process in advance and consider any contraindications to the practice.
We wish you health on all levels and wisdom in all your endeavors!