The Yogic Cleansing Inspired by Elephants
- Shammi's Yogalaya
- Oct 28
- 2 min read
It is said that yogis learnt this ancient cleansing technique by observing elephants.
When elephants fall ill, they instinctively draw water through their trunks, drink it, and then expel it — releasing the toxins that burden their system.
You got it right.
I’m talking about Vaman Dhauti — one of the classical Shatkarma or six yogic cleansing techniques. Vaman literally means “vomiting” or “expulsion,” and Dhauti means “cleansing.”
In Vaman Dhauti, lukewarm saline water (4-5 glasses) is quickly consumed on an empty stomach and then voluntarily released through the mouth. It’s not just a physical cleanse — it’s a reset for your inner system. The lightness after Vaman is often described as a feeling of inner freshness and mental clarity — like the cloud of heaviness has been lifted.
Why Practice Vaman Dhauti?
When practiced under proper guidance and at the right time (preferably early morning, on an empty stomach), Vaman Dhauti offers multiple benefits:
Cleanses the digestive tract - flushing out undigested food, mucus, and toxins that accumulate in the stomach.
Balances Pitta and Kapha doshas, helping reduce acidity, bloating, heaviness, and sluggish digestion.
Improves skin health — by purifying the internal system, it helps clear acne, pigmentation, and dullness that often arise from poor gut health.
Enhances respiratory health — relieves asthma, sinus congestion, and chronic cough by freeing the diaphragm and chest region.
Relieves headaches and migraines triggered by acidity, congestion, or excessive heat in the body.
Supports emotional balance — releasing the heaviness, irritability, and anxiety that often accompany digestive or energetic blockages.
Improves metabolism and appetite, bringing back the natural rhythm of hunger and satiety.
Aids in managing water retention and puffiness caused by Kapha imbalance.
In yogic terms, Vaman Dhauti awakens the pranic flow — unblocking the energy channels (nadis) so that vitality can move freely through the system.
A Few Precautions
Like all Shatkarmas, Vaman Dhauti must be learnt under guidance.
Avoid it if you have high blood pressure, hernia, ulcers, heart conditions, or if you are pregnant. After practice, rest for a few minutes and allow the body to settle before resuming daily activity.
Try it under expert guidance. Experience what 3 minutes of deep release can do for your years of inner wellness.
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