Vaman Dhauti: Technique
Vaman Dhauti: Technique
Vaman Dhauti: Technique
In Sanskrit, Vamana means ‘middle’ and Dhauti means ‘purification’. In the yogic literature,
this technique is known also as KUNJALA, or the gesture of the elephant. Vaman Dhauti or
Kunjal Kriya is meant for purification of the upper digestive tract. Dhauti is one of the six
purification methods or Shatkarma of Hatha Yoga. There are various types of Dhauti – for
cleaning the mouth, teeth, ears, stomach and intestines. In this article we will discuss the most
common among the Dhauti practices called Vaman Dhauti or Kunjal Kriya. Vaman Dhauti is
meant for cleaning the stomach and the upper digestive tract.
Technique
1. Stand or sit comfortably (sit in a squatting position, if comfortable).
2. Keep drinking this mixture until the stomach can contain it no more. Retain the water;
do not throw out immediately.
3. Exhale entirely and draw the belly in, deep towards the spine.
4. After 5-10 seconds (as per individual comfort), relax the abdomen and inhale well,
letting the stomach balloon. Keep repeating 5 to 10 times, as convenient.
5. Now apply slight pressure on the pit of the stomach with the palm and vomit the water
out. If unable to vomit, insert the forefinger and touch the palate or the root of the
tongue.
6. Rest for a few seconds and repeat step5, above. Keep doing till all the water comes
out. Avoid strain and exhaustion.
7. Relax in Shavasana, the Relaxation Pose for about 5-10 minutes, and only then get on
with your work or with the practice of other asanas.
Benefits of Vaman Dhauti
1. Cleaning the stomach also removes gas, acidity and indigestion.
2. It removes extra mucus from the food pipe or esophagus.
3. It helps to relieve asthma, bronchitis and other respiratory problems.
4. It can alleviate sore throat and coughs.
5. This practice is also used in Ayurveda and Naturopathy. It removes the problems
created by ‘Pitha Dosha’ like acidity and gas.
6. Vaman Dhauti cleans the skin, heals the furuncles and the spots, cures the diseases of
the gum and teeth, balances the excretion, and eliminates the constipation,
indigestion, cough, rahitis, and insomnia.
7. Its daily practice for a longer time leads to refinement, mental purification,
elimination of stress and tensions, energy, enhanced self-confidence.
8. This kriya has a favourable effect on the functioning of the kidneys, liver and the
intestines.
9. Kriya helps to reduce excess phlegm, bile and gastric juices.
10. Vaman Dhauti offers relief in case of obesity, diabetes, gas and flatulence and
constipation.
11. A useful kriya which detoxifies the digestive system.
12. Hygienic effects due to massage of the internal organs.