Cleaning Out the Pipes

I Discovered the Neti Pot

As I explored in 'You Are a Pipe, Not a Captain', I've been fascinated by the idea of letting go and allowing life's flow to pass through. If you're interested in understanding this concept further, check out that post for more insights. But at that time, I didn't know how to apply this principle to my own sinus health. I tried it... sort of... without a real neti pot, I decided it was too much hassle. I also live in Japan and I don't know where I can get one. I didn't really want to buy it on the internet and then get ten years of neti pot advertisments in my browsers.

I Don't Actually Use the Neti Pot

Over the intervening years, I managed to get a sinusitis infection that, true to the doctor's word, reoccurs easily. I have had it flare up about three or four times now. My last flare up made me fed up and I re investigated the neti pot. It was then that I had the inspiration to use a syringe (I use them to teach science and with my son in his projects... they are absolutely great for mini-hydraulics). So I experimented with not pouring saline solution into my sinuses. I injected it.

I love the Neti Pot

Once I started using it, I fell in love. I started twice a day as I had the sinusitis. I was careful to research that there are no severe downsides as long as you keep everything clean and use clean freshly boiled water.

Delicate Balance

I had a few problems at first. Too hot. Too cold. Too much salt. Not enough salt. Too much baking soda. Finally, I figured out how much salt to use (and baking soda... that really mellows it out) and got the correct temperature.

Energy

This increased energy level is similar to what I experienced after adopting the sweeping breath technique, as I discussed in 'Over the Desert and Into the Swamp'. This increased energy level also translates into better sleep habits. As I wrote about in 'Sweep Away Your Resistance', using techniques like the sweeping breath can help you overcome resistance and complete tasks with ease, including taking care of your physical needs. I also swear my sense of smell is sharper. I can really sense my sinuses now, fresh and clear for most of the day ( now I do it usually once a day in the morning).

Happy

Building on the principles of letting go and allowing life's flow in 'You Are a Pipe, Not a Captain', I've found that when my sinuses are clear, it brings me happiness. For more on this idea, check out that post. In this case, my daily neti pot ritual has created a sense of balance and well-being in my life. Related to what I discussed in 'Sweep Away Your Resistance', this simple daily practice has become a non-negotiable part of my routine, allowing me to overcome resistance and complete tasks with ease. Not bad for the payoff. I feel cleaner too.