As an allergy and asthma sufferer, I appreciate the fact that medication is not the only thing that can help ease my symptoms. Yoga is a great addition to traditional medicine.
"Allergies are worsened by a stress reaction, which causes physiological responses, including the release of stress hormones and histamine, and triggers inflammation," says Jeff Migdow, M.D. Dr. Migdow goes on to say, "Relaxation diminishes fight-or-flight response, and thereby reduces allergic symptoms." Dr. Migdow is the director of Prana Yoga Teacher Training through the Open Center in New York.
The following are the best yoga poses (asanas) for those with allergies and asthma:
Supported Shoulder Stand Pose (Salamba Sarvangasana)
The shoulder stand pose is an inverted pose that stretches the muscles of the neck. It is beneficial for those with asthma and sinusitis since it can open nasal passages, assuring that the sinuses drain correctly.
Plow Pose (Halasana)
The plow pose is another inverted pose that can help open the upper respiratory tract and drain the nose, giving freshly aerated blood the opportunity to flow into the mouth.
Fish Pose (Matsyasana)
The fish pose elongates the chest, decreasing nasal congestion and other sinus ailments.
Lion Pose (Simhasana)
The lion pose is an excellent exercise for the muscles of the face and neck. It can also prevent and ease a sore throat. I admit this pose makes me fill silly, so have fun with it. Children will love the lion pose because they can pretend to be an animal and stick their tongue out.
Standing asanas-forward and backwards bends and twists are also helpful to those who suffer with allergies because they usually massage numerous parts of the spine and rib cage and strengthen the lungs. This in turn strengthens how well the immune-system performs.
What types of yoga and poses to avoid
"But don't keep your head down too long in poses like Adho Mukha Svanasana (Downward-Facing Dog) and Sirsasana (Headstand), which can put extra pressure on nasal passages," warns Harriet (Bhumi) Russell. Russell is a holistic health educator, yoga instructor and director of Bhumi's Yoga and Wellness Center in Cleveland, Ohio.
Hot yoga, also called Bikram yoga, should also be avoided.
Neti pots for sinus pressure
A Neti pot is a type of nasal irrigation devise. The use of them began as a yoga cleansing ritual, but today they are more commonly used for sinus health. Studies showed that using a Neti pot every day helped relieve symptoms in those who suffered with daily sinus problems. Once symptoms improve, decreasing to three times a week is usually sufficient.
Research has shown the use of Neti pots to be generally safe. Side effects such as stinging can occur. If side effects do occur, try changing the water temperature and decreasing the amount of salt.
It is important to thoroughly clean your Neti pot to prevent infection.
There you have it. Yoga is fun and healthy, which is one of the many reasons I love it!
More from Rebecca Bardelli:
Top Five Items for Your Pre-Yoga Workout
Yoga for Men, Women and Children
Get Three in One with Yoga: Cardio, Toning and Flexibility
Top Four Yoga Exercises to Help Women Feel Sexy
Rebecca completed courses in Medical Terminology, Administrative Medical Assisting, and Coding and Billing. She is recognized by the National Healthcareer Association as a Certified Billing and Coding Specialist (CBCS) and Medical Administrative Assistant (CMAA). In addition, Rebecca is a former gymnast and is avid about yoga, swimming and other athletic activities.
2 comments