Nasal irrigation. Can't say it sounds comforting. It sounds sort of weird, sort of gross. Opposite of what I want in my nose. Despite my initial impression of nasal irrigation, the moment the benefits were explained to me, I found it necessary to step outside of my comfort zone and try the infamous Neti Pot.
Neti pots can be made from clay, glass, metal, ceramic, or plastic। I have a plastic blue pot. The one issue I ran into with this pot, is that I developed a small sore spot on the inner edge of one nostril. I realized there was a little plastic ridge on the spout that was a result of manufacturing. I solved the issue by sanding the spout with a very fine sand paper, then washing any plastic dust off with soap and water. This may be why most people go with the ceramic pot.
The Neti pot flushes out the nasal cavities by using gravity to draw the flow of saline water through the nasal passages। It thins out the mucus in the nasal passages making it easier to expel it. Germs, bacteria, and viruses get cleansed out and can not thrive for as long.
The type of salt you use in your pot will effect what you feel। Do not use regular table salt as it is treated with a variety of chemicals that harm the soft sensitive tissues inside the nose. After thinking I would save a little money by trying table salt, I quickly changed my mind after experiencing burning sensations and much discomfort. I recommend Ancient Secrets Nasal Cleansing Salt which can be found at Healthy Living in a 10oz container for only $4 or $5. It has lasted me for 10 months so far and comes with a measuring scoop. No more burning sensations in the nostrils.
I decided to skip the vaccinations this year considering I got just as sick just as often with a flu shot. I decided to work with staying hydrated, getting enough rest and adding naps any time I could, and also decided to use the Neti Pot more often. When I feel something coming on, I flush the nasal passages twice a day with warm water, being careful not to make it to hot or cold since the inside of the nose is such a sensitive area with so many nerve endings. Adding the Neti to my routine helps me breath more freely during the day, during work and during my brief morning practice which does include Pranayama (breath-work). Pouring the water through each side of the nose can be calming and feel similar to the practice of Nadi Sudhi (Alternate Nostril Breathing). Neti also has a moisturizing effect.
My approach to illness is different this season then it has been in the past. I Neti when the air is too dry, after being exposed to a group of sick people or when illness starts to spread at the office, and the moment I feel the tickle in the back of my throat. In addition to my regular use of the Neti Pot, I chose to literally slow down when I feel any sign of illness- no more pushing to get through the work day if i need to rest. No pushing in general and honoring my body by resting it, hydrating it, feeding it only the most basic and nutritious foods, and cleansing the nose.
If you have have not tried to Neti Pot yet, I encourage you to explore this interesting, ancient, and preventative practice. If you need a Neti Pot coach or have questions, feel free to contact me: gabygoldberg@gmail.com.
Happy Neti-Potting and Stay Healthy! It won't really come out of your ear.
