What is Nasya?

According to Ayurveda, the sinus cavity is known as a gateway to the brain, mind, and consciousness. To address any imbalances related to memory, the emotions, thoughts, also imbalances above the clavicle bone, treatments like Nasya are known to be effective.
Nasya, is the practice of lubricating the nasal cavities and sinuses by gently placing a few drops of herbal/non-herbal oil into each nostril, can be self-administered. It aids with mental and emotional stress, as well as tension in the head, throat, neck, jaw, and shoulders.

5 Reasons to Practice Nasya

  1. Using oil in the nose lubricates the nasal cavity and sinuses, which protects from the recycled air, thus creating a barrier against pollen and environmental pollutants.
  2. Nasya fosters deep inhalation by opening up the nasal passage, allowing prana to flow, aiding in relaxation, releasing stress, and releasing blocked energy.
  3. Practicing nasya clears stagnation from mucous and relieves congestion, opening up the nasal passages, sharpening the sense of smell, and reactivating breathing through the nose.
  4. Because the nose serves as the gateway to the head, keeping the nasal passages well hydrated promotes mental clarity, sharpens the memory, and aids in creating emotional stability.
  5. Regular practice of Nasya relieves dryness, nourishes the nervous system, eases tension in the head, neck, throat, and jaw, and fosters calming, stable energy.

Do’s and Don’ts

  1. Avoid nasya when pregnant, ill, or experiencing a sinus infection, and immediately after using a neti pot for nasal rinsing. 

    2. While nasya and neti offer many similar benefits, their effects are very different. Just make sure to not do the 2 practices together or one after another as they can create disharmony by introducing opposing energies into the nasal cavity and, by extension, the mind.

How to Self-Administer Nasya?

Administer nasya on an empty stomach, an hour before or after a shower or exercise. Lie down with the head tilted back and put 5 drops of nasya in each nostril. Sniff deeply, then remain lying for a minute or so, to allow the nasya to penetrate.