How Yoga Supports the Immune System

by Pattie Hughes | More from this Blogger

As the cold and flu season approaches, people begin to think about strengthening the immune system. A yoga practice works to boost the immune system response. Doctors and health care professionals have begun to discover the preventative health care benefits of yoga and are practicing it and recommending the practice to patients for a range of health problems.

One key way yoga helps the immune system is by relaxing the nervous system. A relaxed nervous system results in healthy cells in the body that are able to come to your defense effectively if you are hit with the latest bug at the office.

Because the immune system is strengthened by yoga, your body is better able to fight off the slew of viruses and bacteria that come with the fall and winter. A strong immune system is able to fight off invading viruses in a shorter amount of time, so if you do get a cold, it won't last as long.

Oxygen and blood circulation are improved with the regular practice of yoga. Improved circulation and oxygen bring energy to the cells of the body, which supports the immune system.

For many people sickness comes when they have been working hard and not resting enough. When the body is run down, the immune response is weakened. The regular practice of yoga is helpful for keeping the body in balance and strong, even when life gets hectic.

The immune system is weakened by toxins in the body, just as it is by an overloaded life. Yoga helps remove toxins from the body, which supports the function of the immune system. Twists squeeze the toxins from the organs of the body, which rejuvenates the body and improves circulation.

In addition to general immune strengthening benefits, specific asanas offer benefits for clearing the lungs and sinuses, which are often a problem in the winter. The inverted poses, such as forward bend and downward facing dog are great for sinus infections and preventing more serious sicknesses. These poses are also helpful for allergies.

Learn more about Pattie Hughes

Pattie Hughes is a freelance writer and mother of four young children. She and her husband have been married since 1992. Pattie holds a degree in Elementary Education from Florida Atlantic University.

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