The immune system is the body's natural defence against harmful pathogens such as viruses, bacteria, fungi, and parasites. It’s a complex network of cells, tissues, and organs that work together to identify and eliminate foreign invaders that could potentially cause harm to the body.
It, also, has the ability to remember past infections and build immunity to them, allowing the body to more quickly and effectively respond to future infections by the same pathogen.
In addition to fighting off pathogens, the immune system, also, plays a role in maintaining the body's overall health and well-being. It helps to identify and remove damaged or abnormal cells, such as cancer cells, and plays a role in wound healing and tissue repair.
How can yoga help?
Yoga can help to strengthen your immune system in several ways:
Reduces Stress
Stress can weaken the immune system but yoga has been found to reduce levels of the stress hormone cortisol and this, in turn, improves immune function.
Improves Sleep
Sleep is important for immune function, and a regular yoga practice has been found to improve sleep quality.
Boosts Circulation
Yoga can improve circulation in the body, helping to deliver oxygen and nutrients to the cells of the immune system.
Reduces Inflammation
Chronic inflammation can weaken the immune system but yoga has been found to reduce markers of inflammation in the body.
Promotes Mindfulness
Mindfulness practices have been shown to improve immune function by reducing stress and inflammation.
Lung Function
Yoga, which includes pranayama (breathwork), can improve lung function, helping to protect against respiratory infections.
Improves Gut Health
The gut microbiome plays an important role in immune function, and yoga has been found to improve gut health by reducing stress and promoting healthy digestion.
The takeaway
It’s important to take steps to support our immune system through healthy lifestyle choices, such as getting regular exercise, eating a balanced and nutritious diet, getting sufficient sleep and managing stress, but, also, bear in mind the myriad of ways that a regular yoga practice can support this wonderful system.
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