Jan 13, 2022
An underestimated factor that often leads to a weakened immune system and colds is stress. A constant hectic daily routine, mental upsets and inner turmoil not only have a negative effect on our mind, but also on our body. With chronic stress, our body's defence cells are blocked by stress hormones, making it harder for our body to fight bacteria or viruses.
Yoga serves to unite body and mind and, with the right exercises, restores both your mental and physical balance. In this way, you strengthen your immune system and help to alleviate the symptoms of colds.
In this article, we explain why yoga strengthens your immune system and can help you prevent colds. Also learn how you can support your body with yoga exercises and breathing techniques to treat a cold.
Most of us know that yoga has a positive effect on our body and mind in many ways, but what many do not know: Yoga strengthens the immune system. The deep and controlled breathing not only has a strengthening effect on the diaphragm, but also prevents harmful germs and pathogens from easily settling into our respiratory organs.
Our intestines make a particularly important contribution to a healthy immune system. It is often called the centre of our immune system, and rightly so, because it produces around 90% of our antibodies. Yoga exercises that massage the intestine can make a valuable contribution to its health, and thus also to our health.
One yoga exercise for a strong immune system is Pawanmuktasana, the gas-releasing pose. Simply lie relaxed on your back on your yoga mat and lift your right leg while inhaling. As you exhale, pull your bent leg towards your belly, hugging your knee with your hands. Breathe deeply into your abdomen for 2-3 minutes and then repeat the exercise with the other leg.
In the cold seasons, however, even a strengthened immune system often does not protect us from catching a cold. With the onset of cold, our defences have a harder time and so even experienced yogis catch one or two viruses. But yoga can help here too. With the right exercises, you can support your body in the healing process and alleviate your symptoms.
Yoga can help you with mild headaches and colds
You don't have a fever, but other typical cold symptoms like headaches and colds? We have a few different exercises that will calm your head and help you breathe easier.
You should always adapt these exercises to your state of health. If you have a fever or feel too ill to unpack your yoga mat, then you should rather refrain from yoga exercises. Exercise takes valuable energy from your body, which it needs for immune defence and the healing process when you are ill. If you are really sick, then rest and get relief with our relaxing breathing exercises.
An important part of yoga is pranayama, which brings body and mind together through breathing exercises. Prana means life energy or spirit, which is controlled or expanded (ayama) in the form of the breath. Especially if you have a fever or are not well enough for asana practice, we recommend the following meditative breathing techniques:
These simple exercises can already help you feel better when you have a cold and get better faster. But always make sure that the exercises do not exceed your strength. A cold is your body's invitation to slow down and rest. If you conserve your energy, your body can use it specifically to fight the pathogens and for regeneration. You can support this process with yoga.
However, listen to your body's signals. You should generally avoid strenuous exercises in the acute phase of an illness. If even the gentle asanas feel too strenuous, then it is better to leave them aside until you are fit again and content yourself with pleasant breathing exercises. If your nose is also too blocked for these, you can always lie down on your bed in Shavasana, the deep relaxation position on your back, and make yourself comfortable with pillows and blankets.
When you are sick, it is time to give your body a break. Make yourself a nice cup of tea, relax and try to enjoy the short break. Who knows, maybe you can counteract the stress of everyday life and prevent the next cold.