Continuing my series of posts about certain yoga terms that we could come across from time to time, I would like to speak about Karna Randhra Dhauti today. Knowing about these terms and kriyas could be useful for a yoga class beginner or a seasoned yogi as well. Karna Randhra Dhauti is also a hygiene and relaxation related kriya (procedure) like Kapal Randhra Dhauti, which we have examined before.
Understanding ear wax
We often have the urge to clean our ears and many of us may be impatient enough to shove matchsticks and other dangerous items into the ear canal in a bid to dislodge the wax and debris that cause discomfort. Needless to say this is inadvisable and may be actually dangerous. It is a good idea to follow the simple steps of Karna Randhra Dhauti to gently and safely dislodge the excess buildup of wax in the ear canal while permitting the naturally required amount to stay inside. Remember that ear wax is very important to moisturize the ear canal, fight off infection and to prevent dirt, debris and germs from getting deep into the ear. Insufficient ear wax will make the ears prone to infection, and can make them feel dry and itchy.
What is Karna Randhra Dhauti?
Karan or Karna or Karana refers to the ear and dhauti refers to its cleaning. This kriya is concerned with the cleaning of the ear canal or the tube that links the outer ear to the middle ear. The buildup of ear wax and other debris in this canal can cause hearing impediments and other problems. So this ear canal should be kept as clean and unimpeded as possible. While the importance of keeping the ear canal unobstructed has been observed, it is also acknowledged that the production of ear wax is for a beneficial purpose. While the body produces this wax for a beneficial purpose, its excess secretion or its buildup is what could cause problems and may hinder proper vibrations and sound entering the ear. It is also thought that Karna Randhra Dhauti helps one feel relaxed while helping ease stress, tension headaches and so on.
How to perform Karna Randhra Dhauti
You don’t need any expertise to perform Karna Randhra Dhauti; even a yoga class beginner will find it easy. To perform Karna Randhra Dhauti, it is advisable to firstly massage the sides of the face with the tips of the fingers: target the area just below the hair line between the cheeks and ears and work in a U shape that extends behind the ears. This will help give a relaxing feeling and will also dislodge the extra ear wax that may be lodged in the ear canal.
Next take your pinkie fingers and insert the tips into the ears. Rotate in circular motions and allow the finger tips to gently move against the walls of the ear canal to dislodge the wax. When you remove your fingers they may be coated with some wax or the wax will dislodge, dry-up and fall out later. It is advisable to keep the fingernails short and clean and to perform Karna Randhra Dhauti about once every week.