My 4am alarm is Ginger, my kindergartener, knocking on the door.

It’s her ear. And her throat. And she’s tired from coming down the stairs to find me.

Her quiet sobbing wakes the baby.

My husband moves beds.

We head to the bathroom to do the neti pot.

Did you know that the neti pot is a 500 year old Ayurvedic medicinal tool from India? The process of cleaning out the nasal passages with saline water is called jala neti.

After a while, Ginger's discomfort has decreased & she heads back to bed.

Now, more kids are home than at school and I plan to boil a pot of ginger tea.

Are you interested in learning how to use the neti pot?

What’s your go-to when you or your family members are sick? I’ll share some of these on our social media pages, or for really good ones, maybe the next email.

Next email:  how to get back to bed when you aren’t actually planning to wake up at 4am.

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Neti Pot and Jala Neti: A Beginner's Guide

Neti Pot and Jala Neti are ancient Ayurvedic practices that have been used for centuries to cleanse and clear the nasal passages. These practices involve using a small pot or container filled with saline solution to flush out the sinuses, remove mucus and impurities, and promote overall respiratory health. In this article, we'll take a closer look at these practices and how to get started.

What is a Neti Pot?

A Neti Pot is a small, teapot-shaped container with a long, thin spout. It is designed specifically for Jala Neti, which involves pouring a saline solution through one nostril and out the other to flush out the nasal passages. The solution can be purchased pre-made or made at home by mixing kosher salt with water.

What is Jala Neti?

Jala Neti is the practice of using a Neti Pot to cleanse the nasal passages. The idea behind Jala Neti is to promote overall respiratory health by flushing out impurities and mucus from the sinuses. To perform Jala Neti, you fill the Neti Pot with the saline solution and then tilt your head over a sink. Place the spout of the Neti Pot in one nostril and pour the solution through the nostril and out the other, allowing it to flush out the sinuses. Repeat on the other side.

Why is Jala Neti Beneficial?

Jala Neti is beneficial for several reasons. Firstly, it helps to clear out mucus and impurities from the sinuses, reducing the risk of infection and promoting overall respiratory health. Secondly, it can help to reduce allergy symptoms and relieve nasal congestion. Thirdly,  Jala Neti is believed to have a calming effect on the mind, promoting relaxation and reducing stress.

How to Get Started with Jala Neti

Getting started with Jala Neti is easy. Here are the steps to follow:

1. Prepare the saline solution by mixing 1/4 tsp of kosher salt with water.
2. Fill the Neti Pot with the solution and stand over a sink.
3. Tilt your head to one side and place the spout of the Neti Pot in one nostril.
4. Slowly pour the solution into the nostril, allowing it to flow out the other nostril and into the sink.
5. Breathe through the mouth.
6. Repeat on the other side.
7. Conclude by putting some oil on the nasal membranes to keep them lubricated in wintertime when it tends to be dry. Olive oil if you don't have anything else, or nasya oil, an Ayurvedic oil blend.

It is important to note that Jala Neti should not be performed if you have a sinus infection or if your nasal passages are irritated or inflamed. In these cases, it is best to consult with a healthcare provider before starting this practice.

In conclusion, Jala Neti is a simple and effective practice that can help to promote overall respiratory health, relieve nasal congestion, and reduce stress. Whether you're new to Jala Neti or have been practicing it for years, it's a great way to promote overall health and well-being.

I started this process with my children when they were 3 years old. By now, Ginger who is 6 regulary requests neti pot when she has a stuffy nose. Even when they complain of ear pain or have mucus in their throat, I begin with the neti pot. This flushes the whole system and often decreases the pressure they feel in their heads. Along with essential oils, we have successfully mitigated what may have been long absences from school into only a couple of days. :-)