THIS MONSOON, INCORPORATE YOGA INTO YOUR ROUTINE FOR SEVERAL HEALTH BENEFITS
Bhujangasana (Cobra Pose), Matsyasna (Fish Pose) and Sarvangasana (Shoulder Stand) help in strengthening the immune system (Source: Getty Images/Thinkstock)
Monsoon is here and so are the host of illnesses linked to the rainy season. As we know, this season heightens the risk of common diseases, such as malaria, dengue, and chikungunya, in addition to the common cold, cough, fungal infections, diarrhoea, typhoid, etc. As such, one must prioritise their health at all times during the rainy season.
While focusing on your diet and exercising common precautions are good ways to begin, did you know that certain yoga practices can also help keep your health in check this monsoon? "As the monsoon season arrives, it brings with it a unique set of challenges for maintaining good health. However, incorporating yoga into your routine can prove to be an effective solution," Dr Narendra Shetty, chief wellness officer, Kshemavana, Bangalore said.
He added that with its holistic approach to wellness, yoga offers numerous benefits that can help you stay healthy and balanced during this time.
Agreeing, Dr Hansaji Yogendra, director, The Yoga Institute said that it is important to engage in yoga asanas that promote balance, boost immunity, and enhance overall well-being during this season. "Often, owing to the cold weather, people fall sick as their bodies are susceptible to illnesses and infections. In such scenarios, there are certain yoga poses that provide immense benefits for the mind and body," she said, suggesting some beneficial yoga asanas.
*Bhujangasana (Cobra Pose), Matsyasna (Fish Pose), and Sarvangasana (Shoulder Stand) help in strengthening the immune system and boost the thymus gland, which plays an important role in enhancing the immune system’s functioning and improving its efficiency.
Yoga can be a powerful tool to uplift your spirits and promote mental well-being (Source: Freepik)
*During monsoon, people also tend to feel low on energy. Hence, practising poses like Virabhadrasana (Warrior Pose), Adho Mukha Svanasana (Downward-Facing Dog), Setu Bandhasana (Bridge Pose), and Surya Namaskar (Sun Salutation) help in boosting strength, improve circulation and increase blood flow and vitality.
Dr Yogendra added that practicing pranayama can offer numerous benefits during the monsoon season. "Remember to practice pranayama in a comfortable and relaxed environment, focusing on deep, slow breathes to maximise its benefits," she said.
*Anulom Vilom (Alternate Nostril Breathing) is particularly beneficial as it helps balance and purify the energy channels, enhances lung capacity, and promotes respiratory health. This pranayama technique also calms the mind and reduces stress and anxiety. Incorporating Anulom Vilom into your daily routine can help maintain a healthy respiratory system and boost overall well-being during the monsoon.
*Kapalabhati involves forceful exhalations followed by passive inhalations. This breathing technique helps cleanse the respiratory system, remove excess mucus, and improves lung capacity. It also boosts circulation and enhances mental clarity.
Additionally, it is recommended to keep your feet warm and dry, avoid stale food, and eat heat-generating foods. "You can include ginger, and pepper in your food. Avoid daytime sleeping as it can disrupt your digestion and slow down metabolism leading to lethargy. Maintaining dryness is crucial during the monsoon season to prevent fungal infections and other health issues," Dr Yogendra said.
Dr Shetty added that monsoon's gloomy weather and reduced natural light can impact mood and energy levels. "Yoga can be a powerful tool to uplift your spirits and promote mental well-being. Mindfulness, relaxation techniques, and meditation are integral parts of yoga that help reduce stress, calm the mind, and cultivate a positive state of being. By regularly engaging in yoga practice, you can counteract the effects of seasonal affective disorder (SAD) and maintain a balanced mindset," he said.
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2023-07-19T05:08:20Z dg43tfdfdgfd