Hṛd-dhauti

By Swami Harshananda

Hṛd-dhauti literally means ‘cleansing of the throat’ which must be practiced under the direct guidance of experts. It is of three kinds:

1. Daṇḍadhauti - It is the processes of cleansing the throat passage and oesophagus by using a stick, plantain stalk
2. Vamana - It is the processes of cleansing the throat passage and oesophagus by vomiting
3. Vastra - It is the processes of cleansing the throat passage and oesophagus by swallowing a thin strip of cloth

Significance of Haṭhayoga

Haṭhayoga is one of the most important branches of yoga. It mainly cleanses and strengthens the body so that it becomes fit for the practice of Rājayoga.

Classification of Dhauti

Dhauti means cleansing process. It is one of the ṣaṭkarmas or six practices recommended by Haṭhayoga. It is of four types:

1. Antardhauti
2. Dantadhauti
3. Hṛd-dhauti
4. Mulaśodhana

References

• The Concise Encyclopedia of Hinduism, Swami Harshananda, Ram Krishna Math, Bangalore