Yoga Image Yoga has been in practice for over five thousand years, and is a timeless tradition. Hindu scriptures speak of yoga and say that the practice of yoga, which has all-round benefits has evolved from Lord Shiva. The guru-disciple tradition thus has its roots from this interaction and transfer of knowledge, from a teacher to a student. Now, times have changed and it is up to us to inculcate this way of life into our daily life, as the journey through yoga is filled with rewards and transformation. Practicing yoga daily not only infuses positive consciousness within an individual, but also brings about physical renewal.

Starting today, we at HealthJockey aim to bring you information each week on this ancient practice of Yoga. Today, in this article you’ll find that Yoga can even help in the prevention and cure of a common cold.

Common cold is caused due to virus. Symptoms associated with cold are running nose, sneezing, sore throat, headache, and dry cough. Common cold affects many, as it is highly contagious. Thus, immune system plays an important role in the prevention of colds.

Yoga which deals with an all round development of an individual helps in the prevention of cold and boosts the immune system. Psychological factors and stress also play an important role in managing cold.

Practice of yoga also helps in reducing high levels of cortisol, the stress hormone, in the body, that increases the vulnerability to infections.

Deep breathing techniques or pranayama helps in absorbing more oxygen into the lungs, which helps in alleviating colds, asthma, sinus congestion, and allergies. However, Pranayama should be done first under the guidance of a teacher as this practice which includes deep breathing can harmful if done wrong.

Suggested asanas for common cold:

Padmasana: This is also called the lotus pose and is ideal for meditation.

  • Use a yoga mat and sit with your legs stretched forward.

    • Padmasana Pose

  • Bring the right foot forward and place it on the left thigh.
  • Similarly, place the left foot on the right thigh. Rest your hands on the knees.
  • The spine must be held erect. Close your eyes and pay attention to the breath or chant ‘Om’.
  • A feeling of calmness pervades the mind. Sit in this pose till a feeling of peace engulfs you.

    • Fish pose or matsyasana

  • Lie on the floor and cross your legs in the way you do padmasana.
  • Clasp your heels of both the legs and arch the back by bending the head backwards till the crown touches the floor.
  • Breathe evenly and maintain this position for a few minutes till you feel comfortable.

    • Triangle pose or trikonasana

  • Stand erect with arms at the sides and feet slightly apart.
  • By turning the left foot to a degree of 90, bend your trunk to touch the left foot with the left hand.
  • Stretch as far as you can and maintain this position for a few breaths. Do not bend the legs or hands.
  • Come back to the original position.
  • Repeat on the other side.

    • In short the benefits of yoga for a common cold include:

  • To tone and strengthen muscles
  • Increases energy levels
  • Calms the mind
  • Gives shape to the body
  • Boosts immune system
  • Promotes relaxation and well being