But a strong immune system can frost the invaders within a few days, preventing more extreme manifestations of the illness and in fact strengthening the immune system. Yoga postures done in a relaxed way and slow, deep pranayama can help relax the nervous system and boost the immune response. Another way to build the immune system and improve sinus-related conditions is to focus on the thymus gland. Located in the chest, the thymus gland is the locus of the immune system. Thus both the thymus gland and the immune system are stimulated by any posture in which we open the chest and breathe deeply into it. The most beneficial postures for this purpose are the Cobra, the Pigeon, the Fish, the Boat, the Bow and the Bridge.
Since the thymus gland corresponds to the fourth chakra, these postures can be enhanced by including chakra sounds such as the fourth chakra bij mantra “yum” or the fourth chakra vowel sound “ay.” Kapalabhati breathing or slow deep breathing in postures where the chest is open can also be beneficial. Experiment with practicing the postures as you breathe deeply into the chest and sound the mantras.
With a relaxed nervous system and a focused and revitalized immune system, you’ll find you’re able to resist autumn allergens and throw off winter’s infections more readily.
Jeff Migdow, M.D., a former director of Kripalu Yoga Teacher Training
Monica’s Footnote
I’ve added a recipe page for the ‘yoga cooks’ in the group – the first recipe I’ve added is a yummy one. Tortilla Melts – you have to try them! You can click HERE or click the recipe tab at the top of this page.
