Stimulating the absorption of Prana in the head
One of simplest and more direct ways of treating Prana for the health, is to treat it in the nostrils. The nostrils must be cleaned the every day, even two or several times per day in the cases of sinus blockages. (To clean the nostrils one can use 1 cup of luckwarm water and 1/8 teaspon of rock salt. The water is then applied with what is called the Neti Pot by letting the water pass by one nostril and come out by the other, or simply by inspiring water by one nostril at the time by holding the water in the hollow of the hand.)
The application of oil (sesame for Vata, Ghee for Pitta and medicated oil for Kapha) is another way of treating the nostrils, with an applicator (dropper) or by applying it with the small finger and making a circular massage in the back of nostril.
The circulation of Prana in the nostrils is also stimulated by the use of essential oils, incense and of the aromatized oils which can act directly on Prana in the head. Essential oils such as mint, camphor, the eucalyptus are good particularly to open the channels of energy in the head.. These oils can be applied in small quantities on the point between the two eyebrows, at the temples and the base of the nose on each side of the nostrils.
Pranayama – or the breathing control exercises – are is the most direct form of treatment of Prana. The practice of the single nostril breathing aiming the stimulation of the 2 main Nadis (Ida and Pingala) is one of most important and the most accessible forms of pranayama to keep the nose and the sinuses clean at a subtle level. To keep the body in health, these techniques should be practiced regularly, every day for a minimum10 minutes.
Apart from the nostrils, one should also clean the other sensorial openings located in the head. For this:
- One should clean the eyes regularly, especially if one feels an irritation or a burning sensation.
This can be done by using aloe gel, an infusion of chamomile or GHI (purified butter)
- Daily cleaning of the tongue is also important; this can be done with a small spoon or a tongue scraper made of copper.
Cleaning the tongue regularly help on the long run stimulate the entire digestive system and balances the functioning of all Pranas in the body.
The use of an Ayurvedic toothpastes, as well as the cleanings of the mouth with spices (cardamom & fennel) are also important for a good hygiene of the mouth.
- The ears can be cleaned with the small sticks for the ears and a little sesame oil or Ghi, according to one’s constitution.
These techniques should be integrated in our daily activities and should become as natural as brushing our teeth or taking our shower. Part of our daily activities, those practices will ensure a longer, healthier and a more balanced life!
