Allergic rhinitis is caused when you come in contact with certain allergens in the air. It can cause symptoms like a scratchy throat and persistent sneezing that can be very worrying. In this article, we have brought to you the seven most effective yoga poses that help you keep this inflammatory condition at bay. Let us get started! Let us begin the learning by understanding what allergic rhinitis is, shall we?
What Is Allergic Rhinitis?
Allergic rhinitis is a common problem in urban spaces causing inflammation and sensitivity in your nasal airways. The problem arises due to contact with allergens such as dust or pollen. Your body’s immune system produces histamine to combat the allergen causing itchy eyes and a runny nose as side effects. Allergic Rhinitis also occurs as a result of environmental pollutants, stress, a bad diet which make your respiratory and nervous systems sensitive leading to allergic rhinitis. Allergic rhinitis affects children and adults alike. Around 10%-30% adults suffer from it worldwide whereas it affects 40% children. The allergen is a foreign substance which is pollen in the case of allergic rhinitis. Your body’s way of responding to the allergen is called allergy or allergic rhinitis. Allergic rhinitis is also known as hay fever, and its signs include a runny nose, watery eyes, swelling, sneezing, coughing, sore throat, dark circles, headache, skin blisters, and fatigue. Within a few minutes of allergen exposure, your body reacts to it affecting your sleep patterns, working ability, and concentration. There is a seasonal and perennial type of allergic rhinitis. Seasonal allergic rhinitis occurs during spring and fall season mainly due to outdoor allergens such as pollen whereas perennial allergic rhinitis occurs anytime of the year as a result of indoor allergens such as dust and pet hair. You are more likely to suffer from allergic rhinitis if your family has a history of suffering from the same. Asthma also increases the risk of allergic rhinitis. So, it’s best to combat it or at least soothe the effects of the symptoms on your body. Let’s check how yoga helps do so, shall we?
Yoga For Allergic Rhinitis – How Does It Help ?
Yoga is a natural remedy for allergic rhinitis. Yoga poses can decrease the intensity of the allergic symptoms. It is a timeless cure that improves your breathing, improves the functionality of bodily systems, improves your mental state, and keeps you fit and active. Some yoga poses in specific, help you control and find relief from allergic rhinitis. Have a look at them below.
Yoga Exercises For Allergic Rhinitis
1. Pavanamuktasana (Wind- Relieving Pose)
About The Pose- Pavanamuktasana or the Wind-Relieving Pose is an asana that works well to relieve your digestive gases. It is a beginner level Vinyasa yoga asana. Make sure you practice it in the morning on an empty stomach and hold the pose for 10 to 60 seconds. Benefits For Allergic Rhinitis- Pavanamuktasana massages and stimulates your abdominal organs, which helps improve blood circulation in your body. Increased blood circulation to the abdominal organs improves immune function. To know more about the pose and its procedure, click here- Pavanamuktasana.
2. Sethu Bandhasana (Bridge Pose)
About The Pose- Sethu Bandhasana or the Bridge Pose is an asana that is similar to the structure of a bridge. It is a Vinyasa yoga asana that is great for all levels. This pose can be done actively or passively, depending on your energy levels. Practice it in the morning on an empty stomach and hold the pose for 30 to 60 seconds. Benefits For Allergic Rhinitis- Sethu Bandhasana stretches your neck and chest. It reduces stress and mild depression. The pose stimulates your lungs and reduces fatigue and headache.
3. Vrikshasana (Tree Pose)
About The Pose-Vrikshasana or the Tree Pose resembles the stance of a tree. It is a simple standing pose. The pose is a Hatha yoga asana and is great for all levels, but those with balance issues should practice near a wall. Practice it on an empty stomach with eyes open. Hold it for 30 seconds on each leg. Benefits For Allergic Rhinitis- Vrikshasana helps you find balance in life. It builds confidence and self-esteem. Vrikshasana gives a good stretch to your body from head to toe. It calms your nervous system and keeps you focused. To know more about the pose and its procedure, click here- Vrikshasana.
4. Virabhadrasana I (Warrior I Pose)
About The Pose- Virabhadrasana I or the Warrior Pose I is an asana named after a legendary hero called Virabhadra. It is a beginner level Vinyasa yoga asana. Practice it in the morning on an empty stomach and hold the pose for 20 seconds on each leg. Benefits For Allergic Rhinitis- Virabhadrasana stretches your neck, shoulders, chest, and lungs. It strengthens your back muscles. The pose energizes your entire body and improves respiration.
5. Trikonasana (Triangle Pose)
About The Pose- Trikonasana or the Triangle Pose is an asana which looks like a triangle when you assume the pose. t opens up the entire body in all directions. It is a pose that can be practiced by all levels of students but if you are a beginner, it could be practiced with your back to the wall and with blocks under your hands. Practice the pose for 30 seconds on each leg. Benefits For Allergic Rhinitis-Trikonasana strengthens and opens up your chest and back. It betters your mental and physical state. It tones and lengthens the muscles of the legs. Also, the pose makes for a great tool for managing stress.
6. Supta Badha Konasana (Reclined Bound Angle Pose)
About The Pose- Supta Badha Konasana or Reclined Bound Angle Pose is a restorative yoga pose. Restorative yoga relaxes your body and mind, soothes your nervous system, and improves your overall well being. It is recommended to practice this pose with a bolster and blankets to maximize the therapeutic effects. Stay in this pose for 5-7 minutes. Benefits For Allergic Rhinitis-Supta Badha Konasana opens up the chest and inner thighs. The pose also reduces stress and soothes your nervous system.
7. Salamba Sarvangasana (Shoulder Stand)
About The Pose- Salamba Sarvangasana or the Shoulder Stand is an inverted posture and is considered the queen of all asanas. It is an advanced-level shoulder stand. Practice the pose in the morning on an empty stomach and clean bowels, and hold it for 30 to 60 seconds. It can be increased up to 7 minutes if there is no pain or pressure in the head or neck. Benefits For Allergic Rhinitis- Salamba Sarvangasana calms your nerves. It reduces your insomnia and irritability. The pose improves blood flow into your lung area. It’s a physically challenging pose initially, but, over time, and with consistent practice, one can experience the therapeutic effects. To know more about the pose and its procedure, click here- Salamba Sarvangasana. Now, let’s answer some common queries on yoga and allergic rhinitis. Is allergic rhinitis life-threatening? No, allergic rhinitis is not life-threatening as long as you take proper care. Do I practice yoga only when I get attacked by allergic rhinitis? No, practice the yoga poses for allergic rhinitis every day, so your body is prepared when there is an attack. Also, practice even after the attack to soothe the symptoms. What foods cause allergic rhinitis? Foods like eggs, cow’s milk, peanuts, nuts, soy, wheat, fish, and shellfish commonly cause allergic reactions and rhinitis (1). How do you get instant relief from allergic rhinitis? Use antihistamines or decongestant nasal sprays to relieve allergic rhinitis. How long does allergic rhinitis last? It depends on the extent of exposure to the allergen and the treatment undertaken to soothe it. Symptoms of allergic rhinitis may last a couple of weeks.
