Choosing the right oil for Nasya is indeed a vital step, especially when considering your Vata dominance and sinus concerns. For Vata types, sesame oil is really an excellent choice. It’s warming and grounding, which is beneficial for the Vata dosha’s qualities of coldness and dryness. However, because you’re also dealing with mental fatigue and anxiety, Brahmi oil stands out as well. Brahmi, revered for its calming effect on the mind, can help soothe anxiety and mental stress. You could even create a blend of sesame oil with a bit of Brahmi oil to get the best of both worlds.
When doing Nasya, start small. Just 2-3 drops of oil in each nostril morning and evening should suffice. It’s ideal to do this on an empty stomach or a few hours after eating. Ideally, you should lay down with your head slightly tilted back — takes some time to get used to, but it helps the oil to flow into the sinuses effectively. After you apply the drops, stay put for a few minutes, and gently massage around the nose. Try not to blow your nose immediately after, give it some time to absorb.
Morning is the best time for Nasya, particularly after brushing teeth and before breakfast, but not right before you go out into the cold. Post Nasya, if possible, avoid cold foods or drinks for a few hours, and try to stay warm. As for consistency, you might find it useful to integrate it with steam inhalation, which can further alleviate sinus congestion. Steaming before applying Nasya opens up the nasal passages, enhancing absorption. It’s usually safe to combine it with other Ayurvedic practices, such as herbal remedies aimed at your dosha.
Jumping slowly into Ayurvedic therapies is key due to body’s adaptation reactions, so give it a couple of weeks to see real effects. if you end up feeling any discomfort, reduce the dosage or pause Nasya until you can see a practitioner. Getting into ayurveda may enrich your health routine, but ensure it’s also comfortable.
