shodhana

Shodhana is a Sanskrit term meaning purification or cleansing. In Ayurvedic and yogic traditions, it refers to systematic procedures designed to cleanse the body, restore balance, and purify internal systems. The concept is applied both to physical detoxification and to clearing energetic or mental impurities, depending on the context.

In Ayurveda, shodhana therapies are cleansing procedures intended to remove accumulated toxins (ama) and rebalance the doshas. They are a key part of Panchakarma, the traditional detoxification program. The main modalities commonly cited include vamana (emesis), virechana (purgation), nasya (nasal administration of herbal preparations), basti (enema), and, in some traditions, rakta mokshana (bloodletting) or other purification methods. Shodhana therapies are typically preceded by preparatory measures and followed by restorative treatments (rasayana) to support the body.

In yoga, shodhana kriyas refer to cleansing practices aimed at purifying the body and the nadis, or energy channels, to prepare the practitioner for deeper practices. Common techniques include neti (nasal cleansing) and dhauti (internal cleansing of the digestive tract), with basti (enema) and nauli (abdominal cleansing) taught in many lineages; trataka (steady gazing) is associated with purification work in some traditions as well. Practices vary by lineage, teacher, and tradition.

Etymologically, shodhana denotes purification. In both Ayurveda and yoga, the term marks a category of preparatory or detoxifying procedures intended to improve health, balance, and clarity. Practitioners should pursue shodhana under qualified guidance, with attention to contraindications and individual health status.