The slang or informal use of "neti" primarily refers to the act of nasal irrigation, typically performed using a neti pot to flush mucus out of the sinuses with saline water. This practice is common for relieving nasal congestion and is often mentioned in casual contexts related to health or colds
. Beyond slang, "neti" has several other meanings:
- In Hatha Yoga, "neti" is a cleansing technique for the nasal passages, part of traditional purification practices
- In Hindu philosophy, "neti neti" is a Sanskrit phrase meaning "not this, not this," used to describe the indescribable nature of the ultimate reality or Brahman by negating all worldly identifications
- In mythology, Neti is the name of an underworld god in Mesopotamian lore
- "NETI" can also be an acronym for various organizations or initiatives, such as the New and Emerging Talent Initiative or National Effective Teaching Institute
In summary, as slang, "neti" most commonly means to perform nasal cleansing with a neti pot