Yoga tips for the Spring

Change is the only constant, and now we are ready for the next big change from the freezing winter to entering into spring. It’s one of the most destabilizing forces we have to contend with in our lives.

While we look forward to the sunshine and warmth of spring, it brings many allergies and flu also.

In Australia, pollen and dust carried by spring northerly winds that whip them up, act as an irritant to eyes, noses and lungs, especially, but not only, in those with allergies.

The moist air associated with seasonal thunderstorms can also concentrate and break up pollen and pollution into smaller particles, which are more easily, inhaled deep into the lungs and trigger asthma attacks. Warm and moist conditions also promote the release of fungal spores, which can set off allergies in some people.’’

Source: http://theconversation.com/spring-has-sprung-how-changes-in-weather-affect-our-health-48991

How can Yoga help

The breathing and purification methods in Yoga are very helpful practices to prevent from the allergies and flues.

Among all the methods Jala Neti and Kapalbhati are the most effective practices.

Jala Neti

Jala Neti has been practiced as part of Hatha Yoga for centuries.

Neti is now advocated by many doctors and ENT specialists as a safe and effective treatment for a wide range of nasal and sinus problems.

There is a growing body of scientific research into the practice, including this excellent article entitled ‘The Safety and Efficacy of Nasal Saline Irrigation’.

The article goes into a great deal of detail, backed up by a number of studies.

The full article, by Diane G. Heatley, M.D., Associate Professor, Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine can be found here  : The Safety and Efficacy of Nasal Saline Irrigation

How to practice Jala Neti

Step 1 – Get a copper Jala Neti pot .

Step 2 – take Luke warm saline water in the pot. Keep the nasal close to one nostril, open the mouth and breathe through your mouth. Let the water pass from another nostril.

Step 3 – Repeat from the other side.

Step 4 – Exhale out many times to clean the water from the nasal passages. Remember there should not be any water left inside the respiratory tract.

You can practice Jala Neti once in a week as a preventive method and everyday to cure any allergies.

**Note – Best to learn under the supervision of an expert before you try yourself.

Kapalbhati

Kapal means skull and Bhati means shine.

• Sit comfortably on the chair or on the floor with straight spine and closed eyes.
• Exhale forcefully while inhalations are passive.
• Repeat 2-3 minutes.
• Do not open the eyes immediately.
• Practice everyday early morning empty stomach.

Please take care with these exercises. It is also important to note that not all of these exercises will be suitable for everyone .If you experience any discomfort with these exercises, please STOP immediately.

If you would like further information, or to discuss these or other exercises in more detail, or to make an appointment please contact us at Therapia Physiotherapy and Pilates on 8221 5011, or email us at info@therapia.com.au. In the meantime, happy winters!