Exploring Basti for Incontinence and Healing - #41966
Hi I am 22 female I have incontinence. I got it as a child from pelvic and anal injuries. They healed some with physical therapy but I still have bladder and fecal incontinence from nerve and muscle damage. I also have cptsd so I go into fight or flight and it happens aswell. I’m wondering about bastis! Right now theyre like something I have never tried and I think it may be illegal inUS? I saw some online recipes for frozen coconut oil pills and things but is that just safe to do at home? I have seen doctors they helped me some but ultimately have no full recovery or timeline for me. I at peace with that! Just wondering if a basti might help things or change anything. Thank you for reading this I appreciate you taking the time and any thoughts you may have. I do chiropractor therapy and physical therapy. I’ve changed my diet lots of fiber more water and incorporated some Ayurvedic healing like breathwork body oiling and tongue scraping.
How long have you been experiencing incontinence symptoms?:
- 5-10 yearsWhat triggers your incontinence episodes?:
- No specific triggersHave you tried any specific treatments for incontinence before?:
- Yes, physical therapyDoctors' responses
Considering your situation, it’s important to tread carefully with self-administered treatments like basti, especially given the complexities of your medical history. Basti, an Ayurvedic enema, can be a beneficial procedure, particularly in conditions involving Vata disturbances, but it’s crucial to be mindful of context and application.
In your case, the nerve and muscle damage contributing to incontinence might benefit from specific Ayurvedic therapies, including basti, but these must be carried out by a qualified practitioner. Self-administered enemas, more so with materials like coconut oil without supervision, could potentially lead to adverse effects, especially considering the potential legal concerns in the U.S. regarding these practices.
While you’ve already made commendable changes such as dietary alterations, staying hydrated, and incorporating Ayurvedic practices like abhyanga (oil massage), breathwork, and tongue scraping, these should be continued as they support overall well-being. Breathwork, in particular, might help with the stress response associated with cPTSD, slightly easing symptoms during fight-or-flight episodes.
Regarding basti, Ayurvedic practitioners typically recommend a course of bastis tailored to individual needs. They are administered in two main types: Anuvasana (oil-based) and Niruha (decoction-based), which requires precise formulations to cater to specific conditions. Hence, it’d be wise to consult an Ayurvedic expert in person who can recommend a regimen appropriate to your dosha constitution and specific health conditions.
Since you are already receiving care from medical professionals like chiropractors and physical therapists, consider discussing with them any integration of Ayurveda to ensure a holistic and safe approach. Your journey emphasizes personalized care, and while Ayurveda has much to offer, professional help tailored precisely to your condition should guide the application of any such treatments.
Basti, or medicated enema, can indeed be a supportive option for the imbalances contributing to incontinence, especially if done under proper guidance. Bastis are often used to alleviate vata dosha disturbances, which are commonly linked to nervous system and muscular issues. However, it’s essential to approach this carefully. Performing bastis independently, particularly with DIY recipes like frozen coconut oil pills, might not be safe or effective. These need precise herbal formulations tailored to your body’s specific constitution, and they require oversight to avoid complications.
In your case, seeking the help of a qualified Ayurvedic practitioner experienced in the Siddha tradition would be a safer route. They can provide specifically tailored basti treatment, such as anuvasana basti (oil-based enema) or niruha basti (decoction-based enema), depending on your condition. They would also help determine the right medicated oils or herbs suitable for your prakriti and current health state.
Besides bastis, certain dietary and lifestyle adjustments could further support your healing. Incorporating warm, grounding foods with good fats like ghee, reducing dry or rough foods, and staying warm can help soothe vata imbalances. Considering your cptsd, adopting gentle pranayama and meditation practices may reduce stress responses.
Be sure to consult healthcare practitioners about any integrative treatments, ensuring they’re safe alongside your current therapies. If incontinence worsens or other serious symptoms arise, seek immediate medical attention.
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