Did you know that Yoga works on the whole body, not just some specific muscles but rather the combination and balance of mind and body. More specifically Yoga helps by:
-Bringing oxygen to all the organs and cells of your body to ensure its health and optimum functioning
Health in the Winter
-Detoxifying the body by helping to squeeze out toxins from tissues into the lymphatic system
-Strengthening the lungs and respiratory functions
-Providing support to the immune system by activating the relaxation response known to lower stress hormones
– Increasing endorphins which promotes better state of mind and in turn better health
Your Health in the Winter
It is not enough to stay away from virus and wash your hands, you also need to adopt a holistic approach to your Health in the Winter in particular.
Our immune system is sensitive and the best way to support it is to stay away from stress, keep in shape, give it sufficient sleep and provide food while keeping away from caffeine, alcohol, sugar and fat, all known to affect the immune system
Indeed, some cold and flu bacteria or viruses can remain latent in the body until we feel tired, overworked, stressed etc.. this is when they become more likely to trigger an attack and result in a full blown Cold or worse Flu. Apparently new research indicates that individual resistance to cold viruses is such that coming down with a Cold is not a simple result of getting in contact with bacteria or virus. Healthier individuals may be exposed but seem immune to the intruders.
When activated, the body defence system responds with the familiar symptoms such as temperature, runny nose, congested sinuses and sneezing, all defences to expel microbes in their own way.
Specific Yoga postures can help alleviate the symptoms without suppressing the body’s natural response in particular gentle Inversions and Forward Bends can help relieving head cold symptoms and clear blocked sinuses. Twists can help with the detoxification process and Chest Openers generally strengthen the breathing system.
In particular Restorative Yoga can help strengthen and support your immune system by reducing cortisol levels and engaging the parasympathetic side and healing side of the nervous system, a great way to support your health in the winter
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