Yoga Poses to Relieve Common Ailments
Whatever your ailment may be, yoga can help you find relief.
The practice of yoga focuses on the whole body rather than just one part. All of our organs and systems, and of course our minds, can benefit. If you’re suffering from a common ailment like allergies or back pain, you can use your yoga practice to find relief. Try the poses suggested below and you’ll be on your way to feeling better in no time!
Yoga Poses to Relieve Inflammation
When most of us think of inflammation, we may think of some swelling that will heal itself without any further problems. Unfortunately it is not that simple. Chronic inflammation can cause permanent damage to the body if left untreated.When infection occurs, our immune system will send white blood cells to fight off the infection. But when the body detects inflammation as infection, those white blood cells can actually damage healthy organs instead. One of the main causes of inflammation is the many toxins we ingest daily. Look for yoga poses to help detox the body, aid in digestion and relieve stress.
Try these yoga poses to relieve inflammation:
Child’s Pose (supported or unsupported)
Supine Twist (any variation)
Half Lord of the Fishes Pose
Triangle Pose
Bridge Pose
Yoga Poses to Relieve Allergies and Sinus Pain
It has happened to most of us . . . the itchy eyes, painful sinus pressure and runny nose. You really want to practice yoga, but fear it will only make the allergies and sinus pain worse (or you will need tissues the entire class). Luckily our yoga practice can help alleviate allergy and sinus symptoms.Allergies and sinus pain are also caused by inflammation, and added stress makes the symptoms worse. Attending yoga class regularly will help keep you stress-free and combat those allergies symptoms. Look for poses that increase lung capacity, give you a gentle inversion, and regulate the lymphatic system.
Try these yoga poses to relieve allergies and sinus pain:
Downward Facing Dog
Bridge Pose
Fish Pose
Child’s Pose (supported or unsupported)
Nadi Shodhana (alternative nostril breathing)
Yoga Poses to Relieve Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS)
The cramps, bloating, mood swings and cravings . . . typically not our favorite time of the month, but we don’t need to suffer either. Our periods are actually a reflection of the amazing creation that is the woman’s body. But if we are so miserable from PMS, it is very difficult to rejoice in our womanhood.We do not have to stay away from the yoga mat during our cycle – we just need to alter it. Treat your body with more patience, love and kindness in the form of a Restorative Yoga practice. Choose poses that allow you to relax, take the pressure off your abdomen, and aid your body in having a healthy period.
Try these yoga poses to relieve PMS:
Reclined Bound Angle Pose
Legs Up the Wall Pose
Downward Facing Dog
Apanasana, or Wind Removing Pose
Yoga Poses to Relieve Back Pain
Back pain is a common ailment caused by many factors, such as sitting for most of the day, weak or tight muscles, stored emotions, how you sleep, and more. I have had many students feel instant relief in their low back after just one yoga class.Our yoga practice invites us to stretch and lengthen muscles, move the body, relieve stress and give the mind an overall sense of calmness. This could be exactly what the body needs to relieve your back pain. If your back is still in pain after class, look for more postures that strengthen your core and back muscles.
Try these yoga poses to relieve back pain:
Bridge Pose
Rabbit Pose
Supine Spinal Twist
Cat Pose and Cow Pose
Locust Pose
Yoga Poses to Relieve Stress and Anxiety
Although stress and anxiety are not the same, the body responds to both very similarly. When an event, memory or challenge arises and causes stress or anxiety, the body will respond to the “threat” with a fight or flight response. When the body is in a constant state of stress or anxiousness, these neurological responses will also be constant and can lead to illness.Every aspect of yoga will help you reduce your stress and find relief from your anxiety. Breathwork and meditation can be powerful tools to aid the nervous system in sending signals to the brain that it’s time to relax. For your asana practice, look for poses that allow you to easily stay focused on your breath.
Try these yoga poses to relieve stress and anxiety:
Supported Headstand
Pigeon Pose
Warrior II
Legs Up the Wall
Deep Belly Breathing
