Yoga and Ayurveda are very old systems, when the word “flu” wasn’t even a thing yet. But of course, health has always been a hot topic for people. Back then, people preferred to take good care of their health, so that they don’t get sick in the first place, which is pretty different to nowadays, where everyone just focuses on medication instead of healthy nutrition, movement and strengthening the mind. Ayurveda offers some effective healing methods, but its focus is on prevention.
Having strong body’s defenses is always a perk, but especially now – and not only because of the flu season as such. For many of us, this time of year is mentally straining because it’s dark and cold outside. The effects of such a mental strain, even if it’s unconscious, shouldn’t be underestimated. Mental stress can influence our immune system in a negative way and now is not the time to risk that.
When you’re relaxed, your body’s defenses will work more effectively. When you’re stressed, on the other hand, you burn more micronutrients, minerals and vitamins. Time to wind down a bit!
Take a breather
Take a moment in between to pay attention to your breath. When you’re nervous or stressed, your breath will become flatter automatically. But that’s not a one-way street: If we consciously breathe deeply, calmly and evenly, we send a signal to our brain that we’re relaxed. Whenever you notice that your breathing is quickening, and you feel signs of stress, try deep abdominal breathing.
Find a comfortable seated position for the deep abdominal breathing exercise. Take a moment to watch your breath. Put a hand on your belly. Can you feel how your abdominal wall is lifting when you inhale and sinking when you exhale? Deepen your breath until you can feel a noticeable movement. If you like, increase the positive effect by visualizing that you breathe in relaxation when you inhale and that you release tension when you exhale. Always do this breathing exercise when you would like to take a moment to unwind and get back into balance.
If you have a little more time on your hands, treat yourself to a full deep relaxation. Lay down on your back in a comfortable position and make sure you won’t get disturbed. Now, you can either start a relaxation video on YouTube, for example an imaginary journey, or you can do a body scan for yourself. Notice your body parts one by one and repeat relaxation stimuli in your mind. Start with your feet – “I relax my feet. My feet are relaxing. My feet are completely relaxed.” – and work your way up to your forehead.
Cleanse your airways
Kapalabhati is a yogic breathing exercise which also counts to the yogic kriyas, “purifying” exercises. The part of our body that’s being cleansed with this is our respiratory tract. Kapalabhati has a positive effect on our lungs, bronchia, alveole as well as on our windpipe and nasal passages. That’s why this exercise is perfect for preventing colds and to keep our respiratory tract healthy. Even when you have asthma, practicing regularly can have a positive effect.
Flush your system
I practice Kapalabhati every morning – right after I’ve prepared my lemon water that is awaiting me afterwards. Drinking warm water first thing in the morning is an ayurvedic must and is really good for you and your body. It flushes your body after the nightly detoxification processes, hydrates and gets your digestion and metabolism going. The lemon water adds precious Vitamin C, while ginger is a great addition to this drink. By the way: It’s not only great for taste and an extra bust for the immune system, but it also balances all three Doshas.
Ayurveda’s immunity secret
Another classic in Ayurveda is Chyavanprash. You can take a teaspoon full of this dark paste every day, either pure or with a bit of warm milk. Don’t worry, it doesn’t taste bad – I think it tastes like plum jam. The main ingredient is Amla, the Indian gooseberry. Apart from that, there are more natural ingredients like fruits and herbs in the puree. It’s a healthy mixture that helps prevent bacterial and viral infections, balances all Doshas and boosts the metabolism. If you have diabetes, you should be careful because of all the fruit sugar and talk to your doctor before using Chyavanprash.
With these tips and exercises, you provide a good basis for your immune system to work in a healthy way. Don’t forget to pay attention to a balanced nutrition, good sleep and activities that bring you joy – feeling good is very important during any time of year, but especially flu season.
Fall is not just flu season, but also Vata season. You can read what that means and what you can do to feel your best during that time here: Tipps for Vata season
