Yoga is a fool-proof way to deal with a plethora of health issues and manage the symptoms in the most natural manner. From heart problems to blood pressure and depression, yoga has proven to be one of the most beneficial therapies, and the same goes for respiratory issues like bronchitis and sinusitis.
Sinusitis refers to the inflammation in the air-filled cavities in the skull, located behind the forehead, cheeks, nasal bones, and eyes. Symptoms of sinusitis include pain in the face, nasal congestion, loss of smell, and fever in some cases. Some of the most common causes for this condition are alcohol consumption, smoking, and stressful lifestyle. However, it can also be triggered by fungal attacks, viral infections, tooth infections, and nasal polyps.
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Effective Yoga Poses For Relief From Sinusitis
To deal with symptoms like these and manage them naturally, yoga is an all-encompassing solution. Here are the five best yoga poses that can help you manage sinusitis and its symptoms.
Gomukhasana
Gomukhasana, or the Cow Face Pose, is known to stretch the chest muscles and facilitate flexibility in the air passage. It can also relieve symptoms of anxiety and stress. To perform this pose, sit in the cross-legged position and slowly stack the right knee over the left one. Extend the left arm over your head and bend the elbow to bring the hand to the back of your neck. Bend the right elbow the bring the hand up the center of your back. Clasp the hands behind your back and hold the pose for 30 to 60 seconds.
Bhujangasana
Bhujangasana or the Cobra Pose is a great pose for sinusitis as it helps open up the lungs and facilitate better breathing. The yoga pose resembles the raised hood of a snake through an intense backbend. To perform this pose, start by laying down flat on the stomach. Place the palms flat directly under the shoulders and hug the elbows into your sides. Inhale and then lift your chest off the floor. It is okay to have your elbows a little bent but make sure not to crank the neck. Hold the pose for 15 to 30 seconds.
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Adho Mukh Svanasana
Adho Mukh Svanasana or the Downward-Facing Pose stretches the neck and spine and regulates the blood circulation in the body. This pose is also known for relieving nasal congestion and other respiratory issues. To perform this pose, come to the hands and knees with the wrists directly aligned with the shoulders and knees aligned with the hips. Push back through the hands to lift up the hips and straighten the legs. Hold the position for one to three minutes.
Salamba Sarvangasana
Salamba Savangasana or the Supported Shoulderstand gives a good stretch to the neck, calms the mind, and is said to be effective for mild depression. For this pose, start off by laying on the floor with knees bent. Come into the bridge pose and lift one leg upwards. Place the hands on the lower back and extend the other leg up as well. Slowly walk the hands further up the back till your feet, hips, and shoulders are aligned in a roughly straight line. Hold the pose for 30 to 60 seconds.
Halasana
Halasana or the Plow Pose is another great asana for relieving the symptoms of sinusitis. It helps the body relax and facilitates better blood circulation throughout the body. For this pose, start by coming to the Salamba Sarvangasana position. Slowly move your legs over your head till your toes touch the floor. Make sure to keep the legs straight and your back is perpendicular to the floor. Hold the pose for 30 to 60 seconds.