What is Shatkarma in Yoga ? This question often arises among seekers who arrive at a yoga ashram for the first time. Immersed in the serenity of the ashram environment—surrounded by the rhythms of nature and the gentle discipline of yogic life—students are gradually introduced to the foundational practices of Hatha Yoga. Among these, Shatkarma, the six purification techniques, holds a special place. Derived from ancient yogic texts like the Hatha Yoga Pradipika, Shatkarma refers to six internal cleansing techniques: Neti, Dhauti, Nauli, Basti, Kapalabhati, and Trataka. Each is designed to purify different parts of the body, such as the nasal passages, digestive tract, and even the mind itself. In the ashram, these practices are often taught during the early morning hours, when the mind is fresh and the body is most receptive. Whether preparing the body for intense pranayama or quiet meditation, Shatkarmas are seen as vital tools for balancing the doshas and removing mental and physical blockages. For many, it’s the first step toward deep, transformative yogic living.