Shatkarma is a 'science of purification’ from Hatha Yoga. Shatkarma (meaning six-actions), involves six different yogic practices. They are Dhauti (cleaning of stomach), Basti (cleaning colon), Neti (cleaning the nasal passage), Nauli (cleaning abdomen), Kapalabhati (cleaning respiratory organs) and Trataka (clearing mind through gazing).
Shatkarmas are believed to balance the two major Nadis (energy channels), Ida and Pingala, and thereby achieve physical and mental purification.
It is also used in Ayurveda (system of Indian Medicine), to balance the three humors in the body, Kapha (mucus), Pitta (bile) and Vata (wind). Shatkarmas are to be done only under expert guidance.
