How do I use it? - Pour saline solution into Neti pot. If it doesn’t hold all of solution at one time, you can refill it and repeat process with rest of saline water. (I mix up a very big batch of saline solution and use it several times in a row in order to clear out my nose.) Insert spout into one nostril and tilt your head so you are looking into sink. Make sure that spout creates a seal in your nostril. Open your mouth and let half of solution flow through your nostril and out other side. Remove spout and keep your head tilted to allow any extra water to come out. Repeat process on other side. Gently blow your nose to clear out any remaining water. Make sure you clean your Neti pot thoroughly after each use to minimize risk of any bacteria growing on it.

How often do I use it? - It depends. If you have chronic allergies and sinus problems as I do, you will probably use it at least once a day. I use it first thing in morning and then during day if I feel like I am beginning to get a headache from congestion. Many ear, nose, throat specialists (including mine) encourage using nasal washing several times throughout day to promote nasal health for those individuals who have problems. If you don’t have any allergy or sinus problems, you might want to use it just before your yoga or meditation practice. One note of caution – a Neti pot is not a substitute for medical advice. If you are experiencing continual nasal inflammation, you should get an evaluation from your healthcare provider.

Once you begin using a Neti pot, it is just as routine and easy as brushing your teeth. It may take a little while for you to become adept at using it, but you will love result. As for me, as I sit here writing this, I feel my nasal passages swelling and my head begin to pound. Now where did I put mine?

In 1923, Joseph Pilates and his wife moved to New York City where they opened up a studio and began working to rehabilitate injured dancers. Some of most famous dancers that they worked with were George Balanchine and Martha Graham. Word of dramatic results that came from using Pilates method spread, and soon it became exercise of choice for not only dancers, but also entertainment stars and professional athletes. For a long time, this unique form of exercise was limited to this elite community.

That has all changed. Now millions of people are familiar with Pilates method of exercise. They have discovered for themselves that Pilates can help them gain strength, flexibility, and balance of a professional dancer, without having to spend hours at gym. They spend less time to achieve better results. No wonder it has become one of hottest fitness trends to come along in years.

Now that you know background of Pilates and why it was developed, you can realize how this powerful form of exercise can help you gain strength, flexibility, endurance, and body of that you’ve always wanted.