Do you want to practice this immunity sequence but aren’t sure how to adjust the poses? ‘Our’ dear Nadia (in our shirt!) put a lot of effort into putting together a series of explainer videos – during a Covid lockdown in the US – in which she takes you through all the poses. So if you’re stuck at home, want to practice, but need some guidance, check out this post!
‘Immunity sequence’
Below you can see a picture of an article written by Rajvi Mehta in Yoga Rahasya in response to an outbreak of swine flu in 2009/2010.
The sequence described in it is still practiced by Iyengar Yoga students worldwide. You can take a closer look at the program at the bottom of this page.
How does Iyengar Yoga help your immune system?
In our ever-changing world, where stress and illness often go hand in hand, the importance of a strong immune system is becoming increasingly clear. All kinds of claims are made left and right about the effects of yoga on ‘the immune system’, but to be honest, there is not a lot of scientific support for this. However, that doesn’t mean that yoga doesn’t do anything for your resistance!
Reducing Stress with Iyengar Yoga
One of the main ways Iyengar yoga improves resistance is by reducing stress. Stress is one of the biggest culprits behind a weakened immune system, as it increases the production of stress hormones like cortisol, which can lead to inflammation and impaired immune function. By focusing on breathing and relaxation techniques, Iyengar yoga helps to reduce stress and balance the nervous system, which in turn strengthens resistance.
Yoga improves circulation
In addition, Iyengar yoga promotes the circulation of lymphatic fluid in the body. The lymphatic system plays an essential role in the immune system by removing toxins and waste products from the body and transporting white blood cells to places where they are needed. By holding poses for long periods of time, consciously tensing muscles and applying gentle compression, Iyengar yoga stimulates the flow of lymphatic fluid, which can help remove waste and promote the functioning of the immune system. Inverted postures are also an important building block here.
Strengthening muscles and joints through yoga
Another aspect of Iyengar yoga that benefits resistance is the focus on strengthening the body and improving posture. Through regular practice of the poses, muscles are strengthened and joints stabilized, which makes the body more resistant to injury and infection. Additionally, good posture helps to improve breathing and optimize the flow of energy throughout the body, contributing to a healthy immune system.
Yoga to support healing
Inflammation in the body also contributes to numerous diseases and conditions. By using carefully selected poses and breathing techniques, Iyengar yoga can help reduce inflammatory responses in the body and support the natural healing process.
