For Better Sleep
In Ayurveda, medicines administered via the nasal passages affect the mind, sinus passages, throat, nose and head area. The Sanskrit term is Nasya (nose) and it is one of the 5 cleansing techniques used in Panchakarma. As a therapy, there are various types of Nasya treatment.
Cleansing, for indications such as sinusitis, nasal congestion, epilepsy and Parkinson’s disease (Kapha blockages)
Nutritive, for indications such as insomnia, loss of smell, dizziness, vertigo, nervousness and fear (Vata disorders)
Balancing, for indications such as conjunctivitis, alopecia, psoriasis of scalp and neck, and nose bleeds (depends on the dosha)
Lubricating, for indications such as neck pain, dry eyes, hair loss, earache, sensitive teeth and neck pain (depends on the dosha)
I would like to encourage you to a daily practice of nasya, which can help to balance the mind, reduce stress and clear the nasal passages so congestion doesn’t become an issue for surgery.
Here are a couple of approaches –
Pratimarsha is the daily application of marsha, or the little finger is dipped into a small amount of medication oil or ghee and the nasal passages are gently massaged.
The practice – dip the little finger in oil (make sure to keep your fingernails short) and gently rub the inside of your nostrils in a clockwise direction, then counter-clockwise. This practice helps to unblock emotions in the respiratory tract, improve your breathing patterns, calm heightened prana in the mind, relax the muscles and induce tranquility.
Organic unrefined sesame oil, ghee or a general nasya from a reputable manufacturer (such as Dr Lad’s super nasya) has a dropper that you can administer 3-5 drops in the nose whilst lying down in a supine position. Sniff deeply and then remain for about a minute whilst the nasya oil seeps deep into the nasal passages. It’s a good idea to lay a pillow/towel under your neck so your head is slightly tilted backwards. I sometimes lay on the edge of the bed to achieve this posture.