The immune system is a pretty cool thing. Until it isn’t.
Your immune system can start to act up just like a toddler in a candy shop. When it does, you’re left with symptoms like joint inflammation, allergies, cold hands and feet, depression, bloating, brain fog, and chronic fatigue.
As if that’s not enough, a clogged immune system also presents as weight gain.
And, in case you didn’t know, your lymphatic system and immune system are best friends. So when one isn’t acting right, the other probably isn’t either.
Your lymphatic system is responsible for circulating lymph – aka the leftover fluids from nutrient delivery – back into the body. It maintains the fluid level in your body, absorbs fat from the digestive tract, removes germs and bacteria, and protects your body from foreign invaders.
Unlike blood, which circulates by your heart pumping, lymph circulates by muscular contraction.
It’s vital that your lymph nodes (which filter the excess fluid) drain and circulate properly. Blocked lymph nodes contribute to immune system issues and vice versa.
Lymphatic yoga, and, in this case yin yoga, is perfect for restoring balance to your immune system and assists with lymphatic drainage.
Let’s look at 10 yin yoga poses you can use to restore lymph node health!
If you’re already familiar with yin yoga and how it helps with immunity and lymphatic drainage, check out my Yin Yoga class on myYogaTeacher for a well balanced class that ends with a Nidra meditation!
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Any time your head is below your heart, lymph flows from the highest point in your body to the lowest due to gravity. When you come upright again, lymph passes through the lymph nodes and is cleansed.
Downward facing dog allows this process to happen naturally. Resting your forehead on a block and relaxing your jaw, tongue and mouth, also allows the lymph to flow freely in your nose and throat area.
If you are looking for yoga poses for post nasal drip, this one's definitely for you!
Hang out in this pose for 1-3 minutes and be sure to breathe deeply and evenly!
Seems simple enough, right?
Place a rolled up blanket or towel underneath your hips and rest your legs a comfortable distance up against a wall. Be sure to keep your head and neck in a neutral position. If you can fit a small orange between your chin and neck, then you’re doing it right!
You’ll want to stay in this position for 3-5 minutes (or longer if you’re loving it) and take deep belly breaths.
Relax and know that this pose is draining the lymph from your legs and feet and into your lymph nodes for cleansing!
We’ve talked before about how twisting poses alleviate back and hip pain in previous posts. This lymphatic yoga pose is done slightly differently than static reclined twists. We’ve included it with yin yoga because it’s still important to perform this pose for 2-3 minutes.
Lying on your back, place your feet a little more than hip’s width apart. Knees facing the ceiling and feet flat on the floor.
Inhale, and as you exhale let your knees sway to the left or right like a windshield wiper. Inhale as your knees come up and exhale as you effortlessly let them fall to the other side. Go back and forth like this for 2-3 minutes.
Feel free to gain some momentum with this pose as long as it is painless and remains effortless.
Twisting poses stimulate the lymphatic system with gentle compression and help the connective tissue release lymph.
Gotta love the cat and cow pose!
The gentle contraction of muscles in the abdomen and stretching of the hips and spine not only provides an amazing stretch for your back muscles, but helps release the lymph from those areas.
The gentle head movement also helps fluid release from your neck, upper chest, and armpit areas.
Perform cat and cow pose for 2-3 minutes.
Remember! For cat, you’re not necessarily arching your back. You’re releasing your hips upward. The arch in your back should be minimal, gentle, and should not hurt!
Neck stretches are perfect for clearing head congestion and allowing tight muscles to relax enough that they let go of the lymph so it can flow and be cleansed!
Sitting cross legged on a block or blanket, relax your shoulders down and gently tilt your ear towards your shoulder.
No need to strain here! Just let your head fall and keep your chin neutral, not lifted up or down. Hold each side for 30 seconds to a minute and repeat 3 times.
You can also do some gentle head rolls here.
Get a full spinal stretch with this pose, from your Achilles tendons all the way to your neck. Just as importantly, you’ll be allowing lymph to circulate throughout your upper body and be cleansed when you stand up. This is also a good yoga pose for post nasal drip!
Rest your head on one or two blocks to allow your jaw, neck, tongue and face to relax.
You’ll want to rest in this position for 2-3 minutes and roll up slowly and gently, inch by inch.
There’s nothing like the sweet release that happens in your quads and hips when you do low lunge properly. It’s ahhhhhmazing! Adding a gentle twist with it creates contraction in the abdomen.
Together, the muscle release and compression of abdominal muscles allows lymph to release from the muscles and be pumped towards the lymph nodes.
There are several modifications for this pose. We have shown you one that is perfect for all body types and all skill levels.
And definitely hold this pose on each side for 2-3 minutes. Feel free to put a blanket or pad under the knee area for more support!
This one is particularly helpful if you’re feeling under the weather!
Supported bridge pose opens up your chest for easier air movement, and using a block lengthwise under your torso allows you to relax and let gravity do all the work!
It also helps rejuvenate the parts of the lymphatic systems closest to your chest and helps clear up sinus drainage!
You’re welcome to do this pose, unsupported without the block. But either way you do it, hold this pose for 3-5 minutes for optimal effect!
Speaking of poses for chest and airway health, bow pose is perfect if you’re having sinus issues or post nasal drip. Traditionally performed as an ab strengthening pose, bow pose also happens to help drain and bring to life the parts of the lymphatic system close to your chest.
It also stimulates your thymus gland, a gland in between the lungs that creates white blood cells, which are a huge part of the immune system!
If you’re unable to do bow pose, a modified version would be to use a strap to help you grab your feet or ankles. You can also skip grabbing your feet or ankles all together and simply reach backwards as if you were going to, but not. And then just lift your thighs up off the ground or mat.
Hold post for 10 seconds and repeat for 1 minute.
Child’s pose is just the pose to round out any practice. That’s why we incorporate it into our MyYogaTeacher classes and our blog posts!
This pose stretches all the right places, releases all the right places, and the compression of your stomach promotes lymphatic circulation. Also, gentle rocking of your forehead on the floor during this pose will definitely help alleviate sinus drainage.
Plus, it’s easy! No modifications needed, but if you want to rest a block under your forehead for comfort, you can!
There you go! These are 10 really good yoga poses for lymphatic drainage. Also, yin yoga is particularly good for cold and flu season (or pandemics). If you’re needing more yin yoga to boost your immune system and get your lymphatic system in check, click this link to check out my Yin Yoga Class on myYogaTeacher!
Not a member? That’s ok. MyYogaTeacher offers a two week free trial when you sign up !
In the meantime, drink plenty of water, get outside in nature, and when you’re ready, I’ll see you on the mat!
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{"slug":"yin-yoga-for-immunity","recentPosts":[{"id":"cldebisqj8am10bk2riasiyyy","slug":"self-love-yoga-event","author":{"name":"Will","teacherMytSlug":"will-1","pictureUrl":"will.jpeg"},"title":"Self Love Yoga & Meditation Event: Empower Yourself This Valentine’s Day","subTitle":null,"seoTitle":null,"seoDescription":"Empower yourself this Valentine's Day with our Self Love Yoga & Meditation Event. Find inner peace and self-acceptance through yoga and meditation practices","readTime":null,"excerpt":null,"tags":[],"createdAt":"2023-01-27T09:24:55.671424+00:00","coverUrl":"rvpz4az7wyk8pdo4fvyg.png","content":{"text":"Announcing our free Self Love Event February 13-14!\\n\n\\nEmbrace yourself and practice self love this Valentine’s Day and every day with the help of MyYogaTeacher’s expert yoga teachers.\\n\\nYoga has been a powerful tool for self-improvement and personal growth for centuries, and self-love yoga is no exception. Unfortunately, many of us struggle with self-doubt, self-criticism, and negative self-talk. Self-love yoga can help to change that by promoting self-acceptance and self-compassion.\\nThis special yoga and meditation event\\n focuses on building self-acceptance, self-worth, and self-compassion through a combination of physical postures, breathing techniques, and mindfulness practices.\\nSelf-love is the foundation of all healthy relationships, including the relationship with ourselves. Without self-love, we cannot truly love and accept others!\\n\n\\n\\nHow to join the Yoga for Self Love Event:\\n\n\\nMembers\\nJust click the links below to one or all of the classes you’d like to attend and register as you would any other group class! Simple as that.\\n\n\\nNon-Members\\n\\nClick this link to sign up for your free two week trial\\n to get access to this incredible event! No credit card required.\\n\n\\nAre you a nonmember who signed up for a trial in the past but it’s lapsed?\\nIf you’re not a member but signed up for a free-trial in the past, and it has expired, just reach out to \\ncare@myyogateacher.com\\n to let us know! We'll reset your trial and give you full access to the event.\\n\n\\nMake this event the start of something wonderful for your mental, emotional, and physical health! So you, too, can be happier, more self-confident, and more productive!\\n\\n\\nNurturing Relationships Through Self Love \\n\\nMonday, February 13 at 5 pm PST/ 8 pm EST\\n\n\\nSelf love isn’t selfish! It’s critical to creating deeper, more meaningful relationships and becoming the best version of yourself you can be! Join us in this discussion based self love class with a guided meditation and walk away prioritizing your health and happiness!\\n\n\\n\\nEmbrace Yourself: Balancing the Heart Chakra\\n\\nTuesday, February 14 at 5 pm PST/ 8 pm EST\\n\\nReady to love yourself (and others) more and better? Need more compassion and kindness in your life? Join this yoga for self-love class designed to open your heart chakra and help you walk away feeling empowered to have more meaningful relationships and showing more love\n\\nThis special event will offer a unique opportunity to nurture yourself and discover the power of self-love. Don't miss out on this transformative experience. Sign up today and awaken your inner strength and self-love.\\nAnd don’t forget to check out other yoga classes MyYogaTeacher offers as a part of your membership or free trial! Or reach out to the yoga instructors below offering 1-on-1 sessions to address specific issues!\n\n\\n\\nAnnelise Piers\\n\\n\\nShika Sood\\n\\n\\nSwati Dalvi\\n\\n\\nAbhishek Bodhi\\n\\n\\nPreeti Goswami\\n\\n\\nRohan Shroff\\n\n\\n\\nAnd remember: If you’re a nonmember who’s two-week free trial has ended, reach out to \\ncare@myyogateacher.com\\n to have your trial reset so you can easily sign up for these awesome classes!\\n\n\\nWelcome to MyYogaTeacher’s Self Love Event!\\nSee you soon!\\n"},"category":["myYogaTeacher"]},{"id":"clczdmysytyzn0ak616x0ikhn","slug":"yoga-for-fitness-event","author":null,"title":"Join the Yoga Movement: Free MyYogaTeacher Yoga for Fitness Event for Everyone!","subTitle":null,"seoTitle":null,"seoDescription":"Join MyYogaTeacher's new free Yoga for Fitness Event starting soon and get fit faster with yoga!","readTime":null,"excerpt":null,"tags":["Fitness","HathaYoga","Ashtanga","Yoga","Vinyasa","Hatha"],"createdAt":"2023-01-16T22:27:36.746406+00:00","coverUrl":"fegu2jin0qfhgaefpml6.png","content":{"text":"Are you ready to get fit, flexible, and unleash your inner radiance?! Don’t miss our 3-day FREE Yoga for Fitness Event January 29-31!\\nYoga is a great way to improve your flexibility, strength, and balance, as well as reducing stress and promoting relaxation. This event will feature a variety of yoga styles and levels to suit everyone from beginners to experienced yogis.\\nOur authentic, expert yoga instructors from India will guide you each day through sessions focused on improving your physical fitness and overall well-being. Plus, the even is completely free, so there’s no excuse not to come give it a try!\\nHow to join the Yoga for Fitness Event:\\nMembers\\nJust click the links below to one or all of the classes you’d like to attend and register as you would any other group class! Simple as that.\\nNon-Members\\n\\nClick this link to sign up for your free two week trial\\n to get access to this incredible event! No credit card required.\\nAre you a nonmember who signed up for a trial in the past but it’s lapsed?\\nIf you’re not a member but signed up for a free-trial in the past, and it has expired, just reach out to \\ncare@myyogateacher.com\\n to let us know! We'll reset your trial and give you full access to the event.\\nDiscover all the best ways yoga can help you get fit fast. So you can live your life to the fullest and move with more ease.\\nWe've put together an entire schedule of yoga for fitness classes dedicated to helping you relax and sleep better.\\nCheck out the educational, inspiring, and exciting event classes and expert yoga instructors making this event happen!\\n(Click the class links to register for any or all of these amazing sessions!)\\n\\n Hatha Yoga for Physical Fitness with Ankit\\n\\nSunday, January 29 at 6:00 am PST/ 9:00 am EST\\n\\n\\nHatha yoga is focused on the physical practice of yoga and is perfect for helping you build strength, get fit, and improve flexibility. Bonus? You’ll feel more relaxed and rejuvenated after this hatha yoga class! Join us for asanas, Sun Salutations, and other strength building poses!\\n\\nFind Fitness in Flow: Vinyasa Yoga with Monica\\n\\nMonday, January 30 at 5:00 pm PST/ 8:00 pm EST\\n\\n\\nReady to get fit while finding your flow? The fluid movement of this challenging vinyasa yoga class is perfect for building up a sweat, improving flexibility, and building strength, making it a perfect class for overall fitness! Join us!\\n\\nAshtanga Yoga for Increased Fitness with Sujit\\n\\nMonday, January 31 at 5:00 pm PST/ 8:00 pm EST\\n\\n\\nDo you like structure in your yoga class? Need a workout focused on building strength through muscle training? This is for you! Join the ashtanga yoga class designed to help you get fitter and stronger faster!\\nWhether you're looking to improve your physical fitness, reduce stress, or simply try something new, our free yoga for fitness event is the perfect opportunity. So come and join us, and discover the many benefits of yoga for yourself!\\nExperience getting fit in a way that works for you and \\nwith\\n you! We’re here to support you on your journey now \\nand\\n when the event is over!\\nSo join us for this free event! And don’t forget to check out other fitness related yoga classes MyYogaTeacher offers as a part of your membership or free trial! Or reach out to the yoga instructors below offering 1-on-1 sessions to address specific issues!\\n\\n\\n\\nShweta Jain\\n\\n\\n\\n\\nMonica Agarwal\\n\\n\\n\\n\\nArchana\\n \\n\\n\\n\\n\\n\\nAnd remember: If you’re a nonmember who’s two-week free trial has ended, reach out to \\ncare@myyogateacher.com\\n to have your trial reset so you can easily sign up for these awesome classes!\\nWelcome to MyYogaTeacher’s Yoga for Fitness Event!\\nSee you soon!\\n"},"category":[]},{"id":"clct2nkfx04xw0bk3fr4lrcjp","slug":"yoga-poses-for-osteoporosis","author":{"name":"Will","teacherMytSlug":"will-1","pictureUrl":"will.jpeg"},"title":"8 Yoga Poses for Osteoporosis: Maintaining Bone Health","subTitle":null,"seoTitle":null,"seoDescription":"Yoga can prevent and in some cases reverse osteoporosis and osteopenia by stretching and strengthening muscle tissue to rebuild and maintain bone density.","readTime":null,"excerpt":"Learn how to prevent osteoporosis with a few simple yoga poses.","tags":[],"createdAt":"2023-01-12T12:33:31.959847+00:00","coverUrl":"pmkhkhuxo5s9dq2qkevm.jpg","content":{"text":"Preventing and Reversing Osteoporosis with Yoga\\n\n\\nIf you suffer from the painful symptoms of osteoporosis, or if you are at risk of developing this limiting disease, there is help (and health) in starting your own regular yoga routine. In fact, doctors are now prescribing yoga as treatment and prevention for osteoporosis and osteopenia, making it an important part of maintaining physical health and wellness throughout your 50s and 60s — and beyond.\\n\\nOsteoporosis and osteopenia are conditions that commonly emerge throughout our later years, and if left untreated they can affect your mobility, bone density, and even your ability to remain self-sufficient. These conditions cause bones to be come weak and brittle, and over time more vulnerable to fractures and even breakage. \\n\\nBut a recent\\n \\n2016 study\\n discovered that yoga can be used in conjunction with other treatments to prevent the loss of bone density and in some cases reverse early onset of osteoporosis. Plus, as an added benefit, yoga is also a low-cost and low-risk treatment option, meaning there is little to lose by giving it a try.\\n\\nHow Yoga Can Treat Osteoporosis\\nThe process by which yoga treats and prevents osteoporosis is simple — through stretching and strengthening your muscle tissue you can build bone density and prevent fractures. Yoga postures exert subtle force upon your bones, prompting them to build up density and become stronger.\\n\\nYoga also improves your balance, which can help prevent falls — which may result in fractures or breakage. Along with building strength and flexibility, yoga also increases your mobility, endurance, and energy levels, helping you stay active no matter your age.\\n\\nIt should be noted that yoga may not cure osteoporosis on its own, and for some advanced cases it may not be effective in reversing this disease. Results vary on an individual basis, depending on your age, bone density, and other factors such as weight and co-existing conditions\\n\\nPracticing Yoga for Osteoporosis\\nIf you’re thinking of starting your own yoga regimen to prevent or reverse osteoporosis, there are a few things you should know. It’s important to first consult your doctor before practicing yoga for osteoporosis or osteopenia, to find out if there are any specific precautions you should be taking and whether or not it’s a safe activity for you. \n\\nPatients with advanced osteoporosis who have suffered fractures, breaks, or acute bone loss may need to avoid practicing yoga. If you’ve recently undergone surgery or if you’re still healing from an injury, you should wait until you’ve fully recovered before getting started.\n\\nMost importantly, you should take care to listen to your body when practicing yoga for osteoporosis. If a particular yoga pose causes pain or strain on your bones or joints, stop for a moment and take a break. Or, try using a modification like a bolster, block, or yoga blanket if applicable.\\n\\nIn their 2016 study, scientists found that the best results for using yoga as treatment for osteoporosis came from regular practice. Try performing yoga poses at least 3-4 times per week, or daily if you can. The more regularly you practice, the more bone density you’ll build, and the more strength and balance you’ll develop in your body.\\n\\n8 Yoga Poses for Osteoporosis:\\nIf you’ve been cleared by your doctor to practice yoga and you’re ready to get started, there are some simple yoga poses you can do at home to help prevent osteoporosis. You can also try taking a yoga class specifically designed for patients with osteoporosis. Here at\\n \\nMyYogaTeacher\\n, certified instructors can help you stay safe and injury free while giving you the independence to practice yoga in the comfort of your home.\\nReady to get started? \\nFollow the steps below to begin your own personal yoga journey.\\n\\n1. Mountain Pose (Tadasana)\\n\\nThe foundation of all balance poses, Mountain pose helps you find stability and improve your posture.\\nStart by standing at the front of your mat. Keep your feet hip distance apart, and you can rest your arms at your sides or bring your hands together in prayer formation. Inhale and feel your chest opening and your collar bones widening as you focus on balancing your weight proportionally on both of your feet. Gaze straight forward and maintain this pose for 1-2 minutes.\\n \\n2. Tree Pose (Vrksasana)\\n\\nFrom Mountain pose, you’ll begin to transition into Tree pose to further improve your balance and stability.\\nBring your awareness to your left foot and firmly ground it into the mat. Begin to shift your body weight to your left foot, while gently lifting your right foot. Depending on your ability to balance, you can place the sole of your right foot on your left calf or thigh. As you do this, be sure to keep your pelvis aligned, your spine straight, and your gaze focused forward. Give yourself a moment to steady yourself, and then, if you feel comfortable, press your hands together in prayer formation. Hold for 5-6 deep breaths and repeat on the other side, then return to Mountain pose.\\n \\n3. Warrior II Pose (Virabhadrasana 2)\\n\\nThis standing pose also improves your balance and builds strength in your legs and core. If you have trouble balancing and wish to modify this pose, try practicing it next to a wall or with a chair.\\nMove to the back portion of your mat and step your right foot forward. Your right toes should be pointed forward and your left (back) foot should be kept parallel with your mat. Bend your right knee at 90 degrees, taking care not to overextend. Your right knee should not move forward past your toes. With your hips evenly squared, stretch your arms out to both sides, so that your right arm extended out in front of you and your left arm behind you. Open your chest and focus on activating your legs so that you are grounded into your mat. Hold this pose for 5-6 breaths and repeat on the other side.\\n \\n4. Triangle Pose (Trikonasana)\\n\\nThis pose also requires strength and balance, and can be modified by performing it next to a wall. You can also place a block next to your front foot for easier hand positioning. \\nJust like with Warrior II, step your right foot forward for Triangle pose, keeping your left (back) foot parallel with your mat. Inhale and stretch out both your arms the same as in Warrior II, but keep your right leg straight with a slight, soft bend in your knee. As you exhale, hinge at your hip and bend forward, placing your right fingertips on the floor, or you can place your hand on the block positioned next to your right foot. Turn your upper body and reach your left hand toward the ceiling, and either turn your head to gaze up at your hand, or keep your eyes focused straight ahead. Hold for 3-5 breaths and repeat on the other side.\\n \\n5. Cat-Cow Pose (Chakravakasana)\\n\\nThis pose is excellent for increasing mobility in your spine and hips.\\nMove to a tabletop position on your mat, with your hands and knees on the floor. Inhale and look up, lifting your chin and gently arching your back. Feel the stretch in your chest and abdomen. As you exhale, drop your chin and look down toward your naval as you curl your spine forward. Continue this movement 5-10 times.\\n \\n6. Locust Pose (Shalabhasana)\\n\\nLike Cat-Cow, Locust improves your spinal mobility with a soft backbend, but in this pose you will also be working your core muscles, glutes, and shoulders.\\nFrom Cat-Cow, lower yourself onto the mat so that you are lying face down on your stomach with your legs extended straight and your arms at your sides. On your inhale, strengthen your core and lift your head, legs and arms at the same time, balancing your body on your lower abdomen, pelvis and upper legs. Engage your glutes and press both of your legs together while holding them up. Hold this pose for 5-6 breaths, and then relax back onto your mat.\\n \\n7. Child’s Pose (Balasana)\\n\\nAfter the strengthening work of Locust pose, give your body a rest with Child’s pose\\nAfter Locust you’ve likely returned to lying face down on your mat. Press your palms and knees into the floor as if you were rising back into tabletop position, but this time bring your hips back so that your buttocks are resting on your heels, and your big toes are touching each other. Extend your arms forward so that your palms are resting on the mat in front of you, and bring your forehead to the mat. Breathe gently and allow your body to fully sink into this pose, supported by the floor. Hold for 5-6 minutes.\\n \\n8. Corpse Pose (Savasana)\\n\\nAfter practicing the above stretching and strengthening poses, it’s important to let your body fully digest the movement by resting in Corpse pose. \\nCome to a seated position on your mat. Slowly lower your body to the floor, so that you are lying flat on your back with your legs extended straight and your arms at your sides, palms facing up. Close your eyes and bring your focus inward. Bring your awareness to your body and check in with each and every body part, noticing if you feel any tension and allowing yourself to fully relax. Soften your face, neck, and shoulders, and let yourself melt into your mat while visualizing any tension leaving your body. Rest in this post for 5-7 minutes."},"category":["pain_management"]},{"id":"clct29qar2mln09k7b9xhmih5","slug":"8-yoga-poses-for-psoas-pain-relief","author":{"name":"Will","teacherMytSlug":"will-1","pictureUrl":"will.jpeg"},"title":"8 Yoga Poses for Psoas Pain Relief","subTitle":"Learn yoga poses that target your psoas muscle to relieve pain.","seoTitle":null,"seoDescription":"By practicing a few specific yoga poses, you can directly stretch the psoas and surrounding areas, relieving tension, pain, and stiffness\n","readTime":null,"excerpt":null,"tags":[],"createdAt":"2023-01-12T12:22:46.336259+00:00","coverUrl":"fitbgltpzxzyqblmzhjg.jpg","content":{"text":"Possibly the most integral muscle group in your entire body, the psoas governs the central functioning of your core. Without it, you wouldn’t be able to move properly, walk, stand, or do much of anything, because the muscles in this group also attach your legs to your spine.\\n\\nIssues with your psoas can be deeply painful, and it’s a difficult area to massage. The psoas major, psoas minor, and iliacus combined make up your iliopsoas, commonly referred as simply the psoas. And when the psoas is unhappy, it can cause symptoms with a range of severity, from slightly uncomfortable to totally debilitating, like difficulty walking or standing upright, lower back pain, and pelvic pain. \n\\nAthletic injuries, prolonged periods of sitting and surgery can affect the health of your psoas, and if you’re experiencing a tight and shortened psoas, it’s likely you’re also suffering from weakness and pain. You can relieve your symptoms and fully recover from psoas issues by stretching and strengthening this important muscle group with yoga. \n\\nHow to Relieve Psoas Pain\\n\\nPsoas pain can affect the entire structure of your body, causing adjoining muscles to become overworked and your posture to become off-kilter, leading to widespread chronic pain. Yoga can help correct issues with your psoas and get you back to feeling balanced again. By practicing a few specific yoga poses, you can directly stretch the psoas and surrounding areas, relieving tension, pain, and stiffness.\\n\\nIt’s important to also strengthen the psoas to enable your body to function properly. A weak psoas can put enormous strain on your surrounding muscles and joints, and a strong core is essential for your physical health. By lengthening and strengthening your psoas at the same time, you can correct issues and reduce pain.\n\\nIf you’re suffering from a tight or weak psoas, try practicing the yoga poses below on a regular basis to start the healing process.\n\\n8 Yoga Poses for Psoas Pain Relief\\n\n\\n1. Low Lunge Pose\\n\\nLow Lunge is an easy pose to start lengthening your psoas muscles, and you can adjust this position to stretch as deeply as you feel comfortable.\\nFrom a kneeling position, start by bringing your left foot forward and bending your left leg at the knee. Inhale while reaching your arms over your head, keeping them parallel with the sides of your head. Allow your chest to expand and lengthen your spine. Remember to keep your chin level and your gaze focused straight ahead. Repeat on the other side.\\n \\n2. Tree Pose\\n\\nTree pose strengthens and stretches your psoas muscles by isolating the area building strength through balance.\\nStand in Mountain pose and place your feet hip distance apart, arms relaxed at your sides. Gently shift your body weight to your left foot and bending your right knee, lifting it upward. Place the sole of your right foot on the inside of your left thigh. Keep your spine and head straight, with your gaze facing forward. Give yourself a moment to steady your balance, bring your hands together in Namaste formation. Hold for 5-6 deep breaths.\\n \\n3. Boat Pose\\n\\nOne of the best asanas for your core, Boat pose strengthens your abdominal muscles for better balance and posture.\\nStart by sitting with your legs stretched out in front of you and your arms at your sides. Lean back slightly so that your weight is evenly balanced. Inhale, engage your core, and exhale as you lift both your legs to a 45 degree angle, and extend your arms straight out alongside your legs. If this pose feels too difficult, try bending your knees and bringing your hands behind your knees for support. Keep your spine long and your core engaged as you hold this pose for 30-45 seconds.\\n \\n4. Knee-To-Chest Pose\\n\\nWhen your psoas is in pain and walking or standing upright feels difficult, Knee-To-Chest pose offers a supine stretch that can relieve your symptoms.\\nLie down flat on your back with your arms at your sides. Inhale, and then as you exhale, bring your right knee to your chest. Thoughtfully extend and stretch your left leg until you feel the tension begin to release from your abs and inside your hip. As you hug your knee to your chest, remember to breathe and focus on allowing your core to fully relax. Hold for 30-60 seconds and repeat on the other side.\\n \\n5. Dancer’s Pose\\n\\nLike Tree pose, Dancer’s pose works to strengthen your psoas through balance, with a deep stretch that lengthens all of the muscles in the front side of your torso. \\nStand in the middle of your mat with your weight evenly balanced on both feet. Transfer your weight onto your left foot while bending your right knee and grabbing your right foot with your right hand. Lift your left arm up toward the ceiling. Bend at your waist and slowly lean forward, lifting your right leg and engaging your core. You can deepen the stretch by creating some resistance — simply push outward with your right foot while pulling in with your right hand. For better balance, focus your gaze on a fixed point in front of you. Hold for 3-5 breaths, then repeat on the other side.\\n \\n6. Supported Bridge Pose\\n\\nSupported Bridge pose uses a yoga block to both support your weight and lengthen the muscles in your core and inside your hips.\\nStart by lying on your back with your knees bent and a yoga block placed nearby. On your next exhale, tuck your chin and lift your hips, being careful not to allow your knees to splay outward. Take your yoga block and place underneath your lower back, supporting your weight and providing a deep stretch to the frontside of your pelvis. Stay in the pose for 30-60 seconds.\\n \\n7. Reclining Hero’s Pose\\n\\nBy modifying Hero’s pose to a reclining position, you can gently lengthen your psoas and stretch your quad muscles.\\nKneel on your yoga mat and rest your buttocks on the backs of your heels. Sit with your spine straight and inhale, and as you exhale, begin to gently lower your torso to the floor. You can move slowly, lowering yourself onto your back one vertebrae at a time. Rest your hands on your chest or reach your arms above your head to increase the stretch. Once your are resting on your back, you can also bring your focus to your hips and allow them to rise slightly upward for a greater stretch in your psoas minor.\\n \\n8. Cobra Pose\\n\\nCobra pose lengthens your abdominal muscles and releases tension in your lower back.\\nLie on your stomach with your legs extended, arms folded under your head and your chin resting on your forearms. Place your hands at the level of your chest and press down with your hands. Slightly lift your head off the mat, keeping your head and back aligned, and press your thighs together. Now, steadily pull your elbows towards your ribs and align your hands and shoulders. On a deep inhale, press your hands into the mat, curl your shoulders backward, and lift your upper body off the mat. Make sure to gaze upward and press your hips into the mat to target your psoas. Hold this position for a few breaths and then rest."},"category":[]},{"id":"clckc2txxldwd0ajx6v2ewnfg","slug":"everyday-selfcare-event","author":{"name":"Will","teacherMytSlug":"will-1","pictureUrl":"will.jpeg"},"title":"Announcing MyYogaTeacher’s Free Yoga for Everyday Self Care Event","subTitle":null,"seoTitle":null,"seoDescription":"Daily self-care yoga event for relaxation and rejuvenation. All levels welcome. Come find your inner peace and leave feeling ready to tackle the day ahead","readTime":null,"excerpt":null,"tags":[],"createdAt":"2023-01-06T09:47:25.040388+00:00","coverUrl":"sqksdkhom5g0uivl5z2l.png","content":{"text":"Ready to make time and take time for YOU in the New Year? This 2-day event on January 16-17 makes it easier than ever to start and keep a self care routine going.\\nAnd, of course, you’re invited!\\n\\nAlmost everyone is guilty of not putting themselves first most of the time. \\nBut did you know that research shows that self care reduces heart disease, stroke, and cancer? Not to mention that people who have a consistent \\nself care routine\\n are 67% more productive, 71% happier, and 64% more self-confident than those who don’t! \\nThe impacts of a yoga for self care routine are nothing but positive. And there is nothing standing in your way of creating one with MyYogaTeacher’s free event. Imagine how much better you’ll feel and how much more productive you’d be if you just took some time for yourself everyday. Your routine doesn’t have to be time consuming. Even 30 minutes of yoga for self care may make all the difference in your life! \\nHere at MyYogaTeacher, we understand creating a self care routine may seem unobtainable at first. That’s why we created this event!\n\\nHow to join the Yoga for Everyday Self Care Event:\n\\nMembers\\nJust click the links below to one or all of the classes you’d like to attend and register as you would any other group class! Simple as that.\n\\nNon-Members\\n\\nClick this link to sign up for your free two week trial\\n to get access to this incredible event! No credit card required.\\n\n\\nAre you a nonmember who signed up for a trial in the past but it’s lapsed?\n\\nIf you’re not a member but signed up for a free-trial in the past, and it has expired, just reach out to \\ncare@myyogateacher.com\\n to let us know! We'll reset your trial and give you full access to the event.\\n\n\\nMake this event the start of something wonderful for your mental, emotional, and physical health! So you, too, can be happier, more self-confident, and more productive!\n\\nWe've put together a schedule of yoga sessions designed specifically to get you started on your self care journey.\\n\\nCheck out the educational, inspiring, and exciting event classes and expert yoga instructors making this event happen!\\n(Click the class links to register for any or all of these amazing sessions!)\n\\n\\nYoga Breathwork: Relaxation and Self Care with Archana\\n\\nTuesday, January 17 at 5:30 pm PST/ 8:30 pm EST\\n\n\\nDo you make time for selfcare? Meditation and yogic breathing are excellent forms of selfcare that you can do almost anywhere or any time! Join us for this relaxing class focused on breathing, meditation, and gentle stretching. Discover how easy it is to take time for you!\\n\n\\n\\nYoga for Self Care: An Everyday Practice with Archana\\n\\nMonday, January 16 at 5:30 pm PST/ 8:30 pm EST\\n\n\\nDo you struggle to make time for self-care? You’re not alone! This beautiful yoga session is designed to help you learn asanas and stretches that you can do every day specifically as a self-care practice. Join us for self-care through yoga!\\n\n\\nWe offer these events so you have the tools and guidance to live in harmony with your inner self, outer self, and the world. So you can move in the world with peace and good health. And so you can be less stressed, more productive, and more \\npresent\\n.\\n\\nExperience the peace that comes from yoga and explore all the tools our expert yoga instructors offer to help you start and maintain a consistent self care routine. We’re here to support you on your journey now \\nand\\n when the event is over!\n\\nSo join us for this free event! And don’t forget to check other yoga classes MyYogaTeacher offers as a part of your membership or free trial! Many are perfect for continuing your self care routine long after this event is over. Or reach out to the yoga instructors below offering 1-on-1 sessions to address specific issues!\\n\\n- Ankit Bhatnagari\\n- Abhishek Bodhi\\n\\nAnd remember: If you’re a nonmember who’s two-week free trial has ended, reach out to \\ncare@myyogateacher.com\\n to have your trial reset so you can easily sign up for these awesome classes!\\n\\nWelcome to MyYogaTeacher’s Yoga for Everyday Self Care Event!\\nSee you soon!\\n"},"category":["yoga"]}],"randomPosts":[{"id":"clcj1uq1ofs1m0biq1wopzere","slug":"yoga-for-seasonal-affective-disorder","author":{"name":"Will","teacherMytSlug":"will-1","pictureUrl":"will.jpeg"},"title":"Yoga for Seasonal Affective Disorder","createdAt":"2023-01-05T12:13:24.396384+00:00","coverUrl":"cqufajiqp5au0ipmos2e.jpg","content":{"text":"When the fall months of October and November transition to winter, do you start feeling a bit down? Do you often struggle to feel positive and motivated in December and January, or a sense of gloom that sticks with you all winter long?\n\\nSeasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a common condition that impacts up to 3 percent of the general population, and it can occur for some people every winter. It’s a certain type of depression that is typically felt during the dark and colder months of winter. Even though this condition can be a chronic occurrence for some, there are ways to alleviate these wintertime blues. \n\\nWhat Exactly is Seasonal Affective Disorder?\\n\\nSeasonal Affective Disorder is a feeling of gloominess or depression that occurs during a specific season every year — most commonly winter. SAD can make you feel tired, unmotivated, hopeless, have difficulty concentrating, and it can cause you to overeat and oversleep. \\nPhysically, SAD can deplete your energy levels, cause weight gain, and disrupt healthy sleeping habits. For some it can bring on suicidal thoughts and a feeling of worthlessness. For these reasons SAD shouldn’t be underestimated or brushed off. If you or someone you know is experiencing Seasonal Affective Disorder, it’s important to seek help and find ways to counteract the symptoms. Yoga is just one of many effective tools you can use to alleviate this condition.\\n\n\\nHow Does Yoga Help With Seasonal Affective Disorder?\\n\\nYoga can help improve your state of mind and elevate your mood through physical postures, mindfulness meditation, and breathing techniques. Yoga asanas can help you feel balanced and energized by circulating blood throughout your body and building endurance. Performing yoga postures can also help reset your circadian rhythms and regulate your nervous system.\\nMindfulness meditations also help alleviate symptoms of SAD by creating new pathways in your brain and stimulating your pineal gland. Learning and training your mind to focus on the present moment can give you the insight and strength to counteract thoughts and feelings caused by Seasonal Affective Disorder, along with a sense of gratitude and positive outlook.\n\\nPranayama, or yogic breath work, is another powerful tool in combating symptoms of SAD. Yogic breathing not only calms your mind and helps relax your body, but it can also increase levels of serotonin and lift your energy level.\n\n\\nHow to Practice Yoga for Seasonal Affective Disorder\\n\\nWhat’s the best yoga to practice for Seasonal Affective Disorder? Depending on your symptoms, there are several different types of yoga you can try — and the good news is, yoga is unlikely to make your symptoms worse – so there’s nothing to lose by giving it a try. Restorative yoga coupled with pranayama is a gentle way to get started, with long, calming stretches and breath work designed to soothe and regulate your nervous system.\n\\nTo get your blood flowing and counteract SAD weight gain, try some basic Hatha yoga poses. For example, a few rounds of Sun Salutations can do wonders for your mood and energy level, while symbolically honoring the light during the darker winter months. You can also recharge your body and get your blood pumping with a Vinyasa or Flow yoga class, if you’re looking to incorporate some movement and heat in your body.\\n\n\\nYoga Poses for Seasonal Affective Disorder\\n\\nIf you’re dealing with symptoms of Seasonal Affective Disorder and you’re not sure where to start, a few yoga poses a day can effectively lift your mood and your spirit. Here are a few postures you can do at home to help keep the winter blues at bay:\\n\\n1. Sun Salutations Pose\\n\n\\n\\nStart by standing straight at the top of your mat in Mountain pose with your hands in prayer position. Close your eyes, take a few moments to center yourself, and focus on your breath. Inhale deeply and sweep your arms up above your head, and then bend forward as you exhale into Standing Forward Fold. Inhale and lengthen your spine as you lift up your gaze in Extended Front Fold. \n\\nAs you exhale again, step your left foot back into a lunge position. On your next inhale, plant your palms on the mat and step your right foot back to join your left as you move into Plank pose. Exhale and lower into Chaturanga Dandasana, followed by Downward Facing Dog as you inhale. Step your left foot forward into a lunge position, and then bring your right foot forward to meet your left as you move back into Extended Front Fold. Exhale as you bend forward into Standing Forward Fold. On your next inhale, soften your knees, and bring yourself back to standing in Mountain pose. Repeat this entire sequence three times.\n\\n2. Legs Up The Wall Pose\n\\n\\n\\nPlace a folded blanket parallel against a wall. Sit sideways in the middle of the blanket, and turn yourself toward the wall, lifting your legs up and propping them against the wall. Lay back comfortably, rest your head and neck on the floor, and fully straighten your legs. Spread your arms out to your sides with your palms facing up. Allow your chest, abdomen, and pelvis to completely relax. Breathe evenly and mindfully while holding this pose for 5-8 minutes.\\n \\n3. Cat-Cow Pose\\n \\n\\nStart with your hands and knees on the floor. Inhale and look up, lifting your chin and gently arching your back. As you exhale, drop your chin and look down toward your naval as you curl your spine forward. Continue this movement 5-10 times.\n\n\\nPranayama for Seasonal Affective Disorder\\n\n\\nYou can use yogic breathing techniques to counteract symptoms of Seasonal Affective Disorder anywhere you feel most comfortable. You can use these techniques to realign your mind and spirit anytime you feel troubling, anxious, or negative thought patterns. Here are a couple of basic yogic breathing techniques you can try:\n\\n1. Nadi Shodhana or Alternate Nostril Breathing\\n\\n\\n\\nStart by sitting in a comfortable position on the floor or in a chair. Breathe in through your nose and exhale completely. For your next inhale, gently place your right index finger on your right nostril, while breathing in through your left nostril. Alternate each side by placing your thumb over your left nostril and exhaling through your right. Continue to repeat this alternating motion 10-20 times, or until you feel calm and at-ease.\n\\n2. Ujjayi or Ocean’s Breath\\n\\n\\nThis is an easy yogic breath you can try whenever you feel stressed or uncomfortable. Inhale through your mouth, and as you breathe out, close your mouth and tuck your chin to create a narrow passageway in your throat, so that you create a small audible “ocean” sound with your breath as you inhale and exhale exclusively through your nose. Repeat at least 5 to 10 times.\n\n\\nOther Tips for Beating the Winter Blues\\n\n\\nIt’s important to try a few different techniques for lifting seasonal gloom, since yoga alone may not completely cure seasonal depression. First and foremost, reach out to a trusted professional, like a doctor or behavioral therapist. They can help you talk through your emotions and offer support.\\n\n\\nLight boxes can also be enormously helpful in reducing symptoms of SAD, providing UV light on demand during the winter months. Try turning on your light box every morning for at least a half hour to help reset your circadian rhythm and give your serotonin levels a boost. You can also try performing pranayama techniques in conjunction with your light box for even better results.\n\n\\nMyYogaTeacher Classes for Seasonal Affective Disorder\\n\\nHere at MyYogaTeacher we offer yoga classes that can help with Seasonal Affective Disorder. You can try a Restorative class for deep relaxation, or join us for a Golden Light Meditation. We also offer a Suprabhatam morning yoga class to energize your day. \n\\nTo help fight off that winter gloom, sign up for one or more of the following classes:\\n\\nRestorative yoga\\n\\n\\nGolden Light Meditation\\n\\n\\nSuprabhatam Morning Fresh yoga\\n\\n\\nTrataka candlelight meditation\\n\\n\\nYin Restorative yoga\\n\\n\\nYoga for Flexibility: Mind and Breath awareness\\n\\n\\nVinyasa yoga\\n\\n"}},{"id":"ckvtloolko7bw0f85fqw3s4zv","slug":"yoga-for-your-skin","author":{"name":"Kanika","teacherMytSlug":null,"pictureUrl":null},"title":"Yoga For Your Complexion: Reduce Acne, Pigmentation, and Dull Skin With These Moves","createdAt":"2021-11-10T14:11:17.594796+00:00","coverUrl":"cynqi55mnqwrnemn7n2a.jpg","content":{"text":"Let’s be clear. \\nSome\\n forms of skin pigmentation are due to genetics and hereditary factors. And wrinkles are a natural sign of aging. There is absolutely nothing wrong (and everything beautiful) with characteristics of your skin that come with time or are a part of you from birth!\\nThat’s not what we’ll be talking about here.\\nWhat about acne? What about changes in complexion and skin pigmentation that don’t come from those things mentioned above?\\nThe causes of dull skin tone, acne, and other complexion issues may vary. They’ll be discussed below, but you also want solutions, help for skin issues.\\nYoga is an amazing source of renewal and health for your complexion! \\nFace yoga\\n is also a thing. Let’s talk about how yoga helps your complexion and produces glowing, healthy skin.\\nNot familiar with face yoga? Check out my \\nFace Yoga class\\n on MyYogaTeacher! We welcome any and all who are looking to tighten, tone, and improve their complexion. And if you’re not familiar with MyYogaTeacher yet, \\nget your 2-week free trial here\\n and join in on any of the 35+ group classes offered. There is literally something for everyone and so many amazing yoga teachers!\\nReasons for dull skin, acne, and pigmentation\\nWhile yoga improves your complexion, it doesn’t cure all the things you feel are wrong with your skin. Does yoga reduce fine lines and wrinkles? Absolutely! Does it help even out skin tone and improve acne issues? Of course.\\nBut addressing the root cause of your skin issues is an important step to improving your skin. Take a look as some of the causes of dull skin, acne, and pigmentation below:\\n\\n>> Dehydration\\n - Not drinking enough water affects your skin in more ways than one!\\n>> Sun damage\\n - Wearing a daily sunscreen helps prevent this and protect your delicate face skin.\\n>> Hormone changes\\n - Pregnancy, contraceptives, processed foods, and natural aging are all causes of hormone changes that can affect your skin.\\n>> Inflammation\\n - Harsh chemicals, acne, psoriasis, and exposure to toxins in the air can all contribute to skin pigmentation and other skin issues.\\n>> Pollution\\n - Free radicals in the environment damages collagen and stimulate pigment production over time.\\n>> Diet\\n - Lack of nutrients (vitamins and minerals) contributes to unhealthy skin.\\n>> Smoking\\n - The nicotine from smoking constricts blood vessels, reducing the amount of oxygen to the skin, causing fine lines and wrinkles.\\nWe could go on, but these are the most common reasons for skin problems. Yoga for skin and face will help your body release toxins and bring vital nutrients to the surface of your skin, but it certainly helps to also drink plenty of water, wear sunscreen and moisturizer, and eat a healthy diet with lots of fruits and vegetables.\\nHow yoga benefits your skin\\nIt has been said that what’s going on inside your body shows up on your face – literally. Stress, tension, bad eating habits, dehydration, trauma, mental health issues, not enough sleep. All of those things are reflected through the delicate skin tissues.\\nWhen your overall health is good, your face tends to show it!\\nA regular yoga practice (whether it’s face yoga or not) is a great way to consistently improve and maintain a healthy, glowing complexion.\\nYoga removes skin impurities\\nThe buildup of heat in the body from many forms of yoga causes the body to sweat, which removes impurities from the body and skin.\\nSweat releases a natural antibody called dermcidin that fights bacteria. \\nBecause impurities are a primary source of acne, yoga reduces acne via sweat and internal toxin release\\nYoga heals damaged skin\\nYogic breathing increases the amount of oxygen received by the body and is essential in skin cell regeneration.\\nWhen the blood contains high oxygen levels, it provides vital nutrients to the surface of the skin, preventing and even reversing the damaging effects of free radicals and sun exposure.\\nYoga increases skin elasticity\\nFace yoga, in particular, firms and tones the muscles under the skin, which reduces fine lines and wrinkles\\nYoga also helps reduce stress, anxiety, and depression, all of which can cause us to frown, scowl, or have many other facial expressions that contribute to fine lines and wrinkles. A regular yoga practice can prevent us from making facial expressions that decrease the skin’s elasticity.\\nYoga regulates hormone production\\nAn over or underproduction of various hormones is a common cause of pigmentation, dull skin, and acne. Causes are often due to stress, anxiety, pregnancy, natural changes in the body, and processed foods.\\nA regular yoga and meditation practice has been scientifically proven to regulate hormone levels over time, thereby improving or even eliminating some of the causes of skin issues.\\nYoga is historically an avenue to holistic health. If you’re tired of trying all the latest and greatest products (natural or not) for your skin, yoga may just be the thing you’re missing! Be patient, though. Nothing gets better overnight. Give your practice some time.\\nYoga poses for glowing skin\\nTry these yoga moves for your skin below to get started on improving your complexion. Warm up your body first by doing a few sun salutation sequences. If you’re not familiar with those, \\nhere’s an article on what they are and how to do them\\n!\\n1. Yoga Mudrasana (Yogic Seal)\\nStay for a minute or two in this pose, breathing normally, and you’ll feel your face become flush with fresh oxygen!\\n\\n\\n\\n2. Vakrasana (Half Seated Spinal Twist)\\nTwisting poses are a great way to help your internal organs release toxins, increase blood flow, and reduce stress, which stabilizes your hormones. Do this pose on each side and hold for 10 deep breaths.\\n\\n\\n\\n3. Matsyasana (Fish Pose)\\nThis pose stimulates your thyroid gland, which regulates hormones. Imbalance hormones can cause acne and dull skin. Fish pose also encourages deep breaths, which brings more oxygen and nutrient-rich blood to the surface of the skin. Hold for 10 breaths.\\n\\n\\n\\n4. Bhujangasana (Cobra Pose)\\nSimilar to upward facing dog pose, cobra pose opens up the chest, allowing more air to enter the lungs with each breath. It also stimulates the thyroid gland and strengthen and tones the neck and face muscles.\\n\\n\\n\\n5. Uttanasana (Standing Forward Bend)\\nYou may already be familiar with this pose, especially if you did a sun salutation sequence before trying these! Inversion poses like this one are anti-gravity and anti-aging poses that also bring oxygen and nutrients specifically to your face and scalp. Stay here for at least 5 breaths and let your head dangle gently, or even sway side to side.\\n\\n\\n\n\nI hope you’ve found this article helpful! Whether you need more guidance on how to use \\nyoga \\nto improve your complexion or you’re an experienced yogi looking to transform your complexion, I’d love to have you try my\\n Face Yoga class\\n on MyYogaTeacher! All are welcome there!\\n\\nAnd if you haven’t yet checked out the MyYogaTeacher platform, \\nI invite you to grab your 2-week free trial here.\\n No credit card required! You can take a few or as many yoga classes as you’d like for free during your trial period. Take advantage of the many different types of yoga classes taught by highly experienced yoga instructors from the birthplace of yoga, India!\\nHope to see you there!"}},{"id":"ckfqz2i7c01zh0126lgqr62ga","slug":"try-it-humming-bee-breath-bhramari-pranamaya","author":{"name":"Jitendra","teacherMytSlug":null,"pictureUrl":"jitendra1.png"},"title":"Try it! Humming Bee Breath (Bhramari Pranamaya)","createdAt":"2020-01-10T00:00:00+00:00","coverUrl":"matthew-t-rader-ohygdzgWbr4-unsplash.jpg","content":{"text":"Think of how your mind feels when you've got too much going on . . . you're trying to manage too many things . . .you're stressed or you're tired. Now, imagine that feeling has a sound. Maybe, for you, it would have a low-grade or a high-pitched hum - like a car in overdrive. Do you know what I mean? \\n\\nWhen our thoughts are bustling and just moving non-stop, they create chatter in the mind. These thoughts can drain us even more or put us into freeze mode. \\n\\nA great rule of thumb is to match like-with-like. And that is how this breathing technique works. You make a low-grade humming sound during your exhale. Not only does this sound create a vibration in your jaw and temples (which is soothing!), it also creates a steady backdrop for your mind. Your mind can relax and calm down with this sound and vibration. \\n\\nBut enough reading - this is definitely one of those techniques you just have to try to really understand it. \\n\\n\\n\\nBhramari Pranamaya\\n\\n\\nFind the right hum that makes you feel better. Traditionally, this technique calls for a loud hum, but feel free to find the right sound and frequency for you. \\n\\nFind a comfortable seat. Take a moment to feel your bones settle and your joints relax. \\nBring a little straightness into the spine but keep the shoulders relaxed. \\nYou may close your eyes, or soften your gaze. \\nDraw your breath in your nose and exhale out of your mouth once or twice.\\nTake a deep inhale. Keeping the mouth closed, exhale smoothly through the nose while making a humming sound, like a bee, in the back of your throat. \\nRepeat this at least 5 times. \\n\\nThen, most importantly, check in with your body and mind directly afterwards. Take about a minute noticing if the mind feels different, the nose or the throat. Even check in with your shoulders and ears. \\n\\nTo amplify the vibrations and the internal experience, you may close your ear by placing your index finger on the cartilage flap and pressing it against the opening of your ear. \\n\\nAdditional Benefits of Humming Bee Breath\\n\\nAs with most things Yoga, the benefits of this \\npranamaya\\n are far-reaching. Here are just a few: \\n\\nHelps migraines\\nRelaxes the mind and body for sleep\\nReduces tension in the jaw\\nLowers blood pressure\\nCreates grounding in the mind\\n"}}],"relatedPosts":[{"id":"cla8lbvafc0i70ak9u3yp18ji","slug":"yin-yoga-for-arthritis","author":{"name":"Will","teacherMytSlug":"will-1","pictureUrl":"will.jpeg"},"title":"Yin Yoga for Arthritis: 10 poses to ease your pain","createdAt":"2022-11-08T19:13:44.482852+00:00","coverUrl":"ipqjb5ugsgcaxzssgbhi.jpg","content":{"text":"When your body is achy and it feels hard to mobilize, you may be suffering from arthritis. This very common inflammation of the joints affects 24% of adults. In a 2019 study on inflammation biomarkers, Research for nursing found that yoga is great for pain intervention, saying “yoga may be particularly effective in reducing inflammation because, unlike exercise or stress reduction alone, yoga has components of both relaxation techniques and exercise.” Yoga can help to ease your pain and help you to go about your day good as new. \\n\\nCommon causes of Arthritis\\nThe most common causes for arthritis are age, genetics, weight gain and previous injury. Even though it can be long lasting, arthritis is treatable with movement therapies like yoga and meditation and lucky for us, Yin combines both! Building a yoga practice into your routine can alleviate joint pain as well as improve flexibility and joint function. Yoga can also help you manage the stress caused by pain which will result in better days and less sleepless nights. \\n\n\\nTypes of Arthritis\\nThere are three common types of arthritis. \\n1. Osteoarthritis, which is the most common cause of arthritis and is known as “wear and tear” on the joints. It most frequently occurs in the hips, hands and knees. \\n2. Rheumatoid Arthritis, which is autoimmune disorder and creates inflammation in the hands and feet. \\n3. Fibromyalgia which causes pain all over the body and fatigue. All three of these can be eased by a yin-yoga practice. \\n\n\\nWhy Yin Yoga for Arthritis?\\nYin yoga is a style of movement based in Chinese medicine. Yin’s specific goal is to rebalance the body and mind. It’s not simply a practice for strength or flexibility but a practice where movement is the medicine. Unlike any other yoga or workout class, yin goes deeper to connect under your skin to your ligaments, deep tissue and bones.\\n\n\\nBuilding your yin-yoga practice online with us at \\nMyYogaTeacher\\n is also beneficial because even on days when the pain seems too intense, you don’t need to leave your home to get to your practice. You can pull up our live classes 24/7 with expert Indian instructors who are ready to help you move through your pain. Our classes are there everyday to help you manage your pain and get in your practice! We make yoga accessible for everyone. A slow yin practice is a great place to start! Yin can relieve pain by reducing physical and mental stress and pressure off the body. Let’s start by finding some moves to get you going! \\n\\n10 Ying Yoga Poses to Ease Your Arthritis Pain\\nWhen practicing these yin yoga poses, it’s best to hold each stretch for 30 seconds to two minutes. These stretches will help bring flexibility into your joints! \\n\\n1. Wide Knee Child’s Pose\n\\n\\n\nThis pose is great for lower back pain and your hip flexors. Also great for pain in the sciatic nerve. \n\\n2. Thunderbolt Pose\n\\n\\n\\nThis pose improves blood circulation and posture easing pain in the spine. \n\\n3. Cobra Pose\n\\n\\n\\nThis pose opens the lungs while stretching the spine and shoulders. This will help you open your chest. \n\\n4. Forward Fold Pose\n\\n\\n\\nFolding the body down is known to calm the mind and lower blood pressure. Come to this pose when you feel anxious or stressed and need to slow down. \n\\n5. Side Angle Bend Pose\n\\n\\n\\nSide angle opens the side body and takes pressure off your hips.\n\\n6. Chair Pose\n\\n\\n\\nChair pose makes your legs stronger, giving you more stability in the knees and more flexibility in the ankles. \n\\n7. Pigeon Pose\n\\n\\n\\nThis pose supports flexibility and mobility in the hip joint. If you’re suffering from osteoarthritis, this pose will help target your lower back and hips. \n\\n8. Bridge Pose\n\\n\\n\nThis powerhouse pose will improve blood circulation and ease stress while also stretching your neck, chest and hamstrings. Come to this pose when you feel stiff. Move through it slowly. \\n\\n9. Wind Reliever Pose\n\\n\\n\nThis pose stabilizes your center of gravity, your pelvis. It also guards you muscles and eases pain along the spine. \\n\\n10. Savasana Pose\n\\n\\n\nFinally, Savasana is so important in your practice. This corpse pose slows down your nervous system while you focus on your breath. It calms the mind and reduces fatigue and anxiety. This is a great place to start or end your yoga practice. \\n\\nOther ways to relieve arthritis pain\\nWant to try other holistic ways to ease your pain? We’ve got you covered! Here are the top five things to add into your routine to feel like your best self!\\nAdd color to your diet! It’s so important to “eat the rainbow” eating lots of fruits and veggies gives you a vitamin boost and helps to naturally fight inflammation. \\nChange up the temp. Adding a hot or cold compress to the affected area is a quick fix when you’re feeling pain. Try a heating pad or an ice pack if you’re short on time. If you have time to relax, try soaking in a warm bath!\\nAdd herbs. Turmeric and ginger can help fight pain and inflammation in the body. Add these herbs to your meals or try ginger tea at night to wake up pain free.\\nAdd more self care to your routine. Book a deep tissue massage or a sauna session so you can relax your body and mind.\\nPractice mindfulness. A meditation practice pairs great with a new yoga practice! You can meditate on your own or get started with us in meditation class! \n\\nTry these classes to get started! \\n\\nStretch and Breath with Shrutika\\n. This class will increase range of motion, control and flexibility in the joints.\\n\\nTotal Body Yin\\n. This slow restorative practice will stretch deep into your joints and facia. This is a great practice to end your day with. \\n\\nYoga for Back Health.\\n This mostly seated class will help you work through any back pain while strengthening your spine and surrounding muscles. \\nIf you’re ready to start your journey to recovery, join us for a practice at \\nMyYogaTeacher.\\n\\nOur expert yoga therapist will help you move through your pain or start a mindfulness practice so you can get back to feeling healthy and pain free! Our 2-Week Free Trial - includes 14 days of unlimited group classes plus 2 complimentary 1-on-1 sessions, that’s a $102 value - for free!\\nThere’s a plan for every yogi! Begin your journey with us today."}},{"id":"cl31z7b95pf2h0ck3sna7w2xg","slug":"yoga-for-women-over-50","author":{"name":"Vineeta","teacherMytSlug":null,"pictureUrl":null},"title":"5 Yoga Poses for Older Women: Yoga for Women Over 50","createdAt":"2022-05-11T19:29:46.900088+00:00","coverUrl":"shfqitaozmzufddc6ift.jpg","content":{"text":"Yoga is for every body. And that’s just one of the wonderful things about it! Another wonderful thing is there are\\n specific\\n yoga poses for women, men, children, disabled people, seniors. \\nA yoga practice can be tailored to meet the varying and specific individual needs of a person or of a collective group of people. Here, I’ll be addressing the physical, mental, and emotional needs of women over the age of 50 with yoga poses that are particularly beneficial to them.\\nHi! My name is Vaneeta! I teach a\\n Yoga for Women\\n group class at MyYogaTeacher. Women are the source of life and energy on the planet. And a woman advances through many phases of life from motherhood to \\nmenopause\\n. Women who are entering the stage of life that is after menopause have specific needs that can be addressed with yoga!\\nNot a MyYogaTeacher member? Whether you’re interested in teaching yoga, starting yoga, or growing in your yoga journey, MyYogaTeacher is a great place to do it!\\nWhen you sign up for a 1:1 membership with us you get:\n\\n102 expert\\n, highly qualified yoga instructors to choose from\\nThe ability to switch instructors\\n or take classes with only your faves\\nAccess to unlimited group classes\\n, taught \\nlive\\nPersonalized instruction\\n and work out, diet, and lifestyle plans\\nTo be a member of a HUGE community\\n of happy yogis from around the world\\nYoga teachers who become friends\\n, who truly care about you!\\nIf you haven’t checked us out already, \\ngrab two free 1:1 sessions with your 2-week free trial here\\n!\\nI hope you’ll try some of these yoga poses for women over 50 and then join my class on MyYogaTeacher for more!\\nOne key to doing yoga at an older age is using props that help you remain stable, safe, and aligned. I recommend using blocks and/or a chair along with your mat.\\n\\n\\n\\n1. Cat and Cow Pose\\nCat and Cow pose is great for anyone at any age, but it’s a great way for women to begin warming up their back and abdominal muscles in a way that is gradual and stable. Supporting your weight on all fours is also a great way to keep arm and chest muscles (that maybe don’t get used as much as we age) strong and conditioned. Women over 50 tend to start experiencing stiffness and reduced mobility in their backs, so cat and cow pose is perfect for helping with those issues as well!\\nAdditionally, because cat and cow pose is designed to sync with your breath, it is a great way to cleanse emotionally. Since changes in your body can cause emotional distress, particularly in older women, this yoga pose helps women release those emotions before moving forward with more challenging poses.\\n\\n\\n\\n2. Downward Facing Dog\\nOtherwise known as “Down Dog,” this yoga pose is great for older women because it:\\nStretches out the calves, hamstrings, and back \\nBuilds strength in the arms and chest \\nIncreases flexibility in the shoulders\\nBoosts circulation of oxygen and nutrients to otherwise contracting muscles\\nShoulder joints tend to wear out as women age, which makes them susceptible to injuring their shoulders. Building strength in the arms and chest helps protect those increasingly fragile shoulder joints. \\nEmotionally, down dog instills a sense of empowerment and increases feelings of confidence and accomplishment, two things women over 50 tend to struggle with when they notice the changes in their bodies.\\nAdditionally, once a women passes through menopause, muscles tend to tighten and contract due to reduction in hormones and hormone production. Downward facing dog is a perfect yoga pose for women over 50 because it keeps their leg and back muscles lengthened and promotes good circulation!\\n\\n\n3. Modified Cobbler’s Pose\\nAs women age, it is common for them to encounter knee problems and knee pain, making some yoga poses difficult. However, many yoga poses that increase flexibility and circulation to the hip flexors and hip joints require bent knees. \\nPerforming cobbler’s pose on a block or bolster where your hips are higher than your knees helps decrease the pressure on your knees while still reaping the gentle benefits of hip stretching. You may also choose to put blocks underneath your knees or move your feet further away from your body so that the angle of bend in your knees isn’t as sharp.\\nEither way, this pose is proof that yoga for women over 50 is doable, even if you’re experiencing physical challenges and physiological changes.\\n\\n\n4. Modified Tree Pose\\nBalancing postures are a common theme in many forms of yoga. They help yogis learn how to focus better, increase concentration, and (importantly for older women) strengthen the tiny muscles in our feet and ankles.\\nOlder women may begin to experience balance issues as they age. This is common and normal!\\nThe more you work to strengthen the muscles in your feet and ankles, the less likely you will be to lose your balance! Additionally, yoga for women helps you navigate the mental changes you may experience by helping with memory, focus, and concentration.\\nUse a chair, wall, or other stable object if needed. You may also place your non-standing foot on your calf or even at your ankle until you are comfortable moving it further up.\\n\\n\\n5. Child’s Pose\\nEveryone loves child’s pose! It’s a great stretch for your back, arms, neck, and even hips and glutes. Older women may want to rest their forehead on a block and/or place a blanket underneath their hips to alleviate any discomfort.\\nTaking some much needed time in child’s pose allows women to reflect on how their body feels and release any negative thoughts about the changes that may be occurring in their body as they age.\\nI would love to have you join us in the Yoga for \\nSenior\\n class, where I not only teach a yoga class specifically catered to women’s needs but talk about common issues women face as they transition into and out of different phases of life! also Check out our latest \\nWellness\\n class for seniors!\\nMyYogaTeacher offers 1:1 classes with authentic yoga instructors from the birthplace of yoga, India! And if you haven’t experienced virtual private yoga classes yet, MyYogaTeacher makes 1:1 classes affordable and accessible! PLUS, with your membership, you get:\\nRadiance! More energy, peace of mind, and better health & fitness\\n42+ daily group yoga classes, 100% live!\\nDiscounted yoga workshops, all live and interactive!\\nMaking new like-minded friends from around the world\\n\\nGrab your 2-week free trial and check out your membership options here!\\n\\nNamaste!"}},{"id":"cl77o54vxciuw0ck85uv39v9x","slug":"yin-yoga-for-digestion","author":{"name":"Bharath","teacherMytSlug":"bharath-1","pictureUrl":"bharath-pro.jpg"},"title":"Yin Yoga for Digestion: 10 Restorative Yin Yoga Poses for Digestion","createdAt":"2022-08-24T13:45:35.992969+00:00","coverUrl":"kfzbgmsrthjpcvpiht8o.jpg","content":{"text":"If you experience bloating, gas or upset stomach but don’t exactly know the source, yoga can be great to help aid in your daily digestion. Yoga can help you to regulate your digestion, get a detox or relieve stomach pain from a meal gone wrong. If you’re looking to add yoga into your routine, we’d recommend yin yoga for help with digestion and stomach issues\\nWhat is Yin Yoga?\\nYin Yoga is a slower, restorative style that targets your deep connective tissues. Rather than a traditional vinyasa class that fatigues your muscles, yin goes deeper to connect under your skin to your ligaments, deep tissue and bones. This practice goes back centuries and is actually based in Chinese medicine.\\n“The practice of yin yoga is based on ancient Chinese philosophies and Taoist principles which believe there are pathways of Qi (energy) that run through our bodies. By stretching and deepening into poses, we’re opening up any blockages and releasing that energy to flow freely.” - Mind body green\\nWhy Yin Yoga?\\nYin Yoga allows you to come to your mat and answer the question “what does my body need today?” When you come to your mat for this style class, you can do a body scan and connect to your body. Notice how you feel and what’s bothering you today. Then, you can target your practice for your specific need or ailment. If you’re taking a live \\nyin yoga\\n class, the instructor will usually open class by giving you an opportunity to answer that question.\\nHow does yin yoga aid in digestion?\\nWhen you do yin or restorative poses for digestion, the poses target your spleen and stomach to aid in your digestion and promote detox qualities. You may think if your stomach is bothering you, it’s definitely something you ate. However in reality, the spleen can also carry worry. If you are stressed, upset or chronically worried, you may be experiencing pain due to stress. So coming to your mat and releasing your stomach and spleen may not only detox bloating or pain, but could also lighten your mental or emotional load. \\nWhen should you do Yin yoga to relieve stomach distress?\\nThere is no perfect time to do yoga. Every hour of the day is good for yoga if it fits in your schedule! But for maximum results, we recommend first thing in the morning or right before bed. \\nIf you choose to do your yin practice in the morning, your detox will continue all day and help your body to maintain homeostasis throughout the day. If you choose to do it at night, not only will you continue to detox while you sleep, you will benefit from a deeper more restful sleep and wake more rejuvenated. \\nSo what Yin yoga poses will help with your pain or symptoms? Try these poses to help with tummy issues or to \\nloosen up hip\\n whenever and wherever you are! If you prefer to practice alone or have a tight schedule, find time to fit these poses in during your busy day! Make sure to drink water after to aid in the process.\n\nFollowing are the 10 recommended yin yoga poses for digestion :\\n\n1. Ardha Matsyendrasana (Seated twist)\\nThis move will release anything trapped in your GI tract and beat bloat. \\n\\n\\n2. Marjaryasana/Bitilasana (Cat/Cow)\\nThis set of poses massages the inner abdominal and stimulates digestion. \\n\\n\\n3. Supta Matsyendrasana (Supine Twist)\\nThis pose is said to relieve constipation and bloating\\n\\n\\n4. Pawanmuktasana (Wind Reliever)\\n This pose eases gas and bloating and increases blood flow in the stomach. \\n\\n\\n5. Bhujangasana (Cobra Pose)\\nThis pose stretches the stomach and supports digestion. \\n\\n6. Adho Mukha Svanasana (Downward Dog)\\nBreathing into your belly in this shape can help to create space in your intestines. \\n\\n\\n7. Trikonasana (Triangle Pose)\\nThis pose releases stress and stimulates your organs. It will help to speed up normal digestion.\\n\\n\\n8. Setu Bandha Sarvangasana (Bridge Pose)\\nThis pose brings new blood flow to the stomach & helps to wake up fatigued tissue and muscles.\\n\\n\\n9. Uttana Shishosana (Puppy Pose) \\nThis pose helps to stretch your belly. It’s suggested for after a large meal. \\n\\n10. Viparita Karani (Legs Up The Wall)\\nReverse your blood flow, give into the ground and let go. Letting go will slow down your heart rate and release any blocked stress. \\n\\n\\nTry these poses on your own time when you’re experiencing stomach distress or add them to your morning routine for digestive support throughout your day! Don’t think you’re ready to flow on your own? Join us for a class! \\n[CTA-GC]\\nClasses to take to aid in digestion or detox: \\n\\nYin Yoga with Annelise\\n - This intermediate class is great for before bed and will help with an overnight detox. \\n\\nRestorative with Swathi\\n - This all levels class will keep you in long holds to aid in detoxification and target deep tissue release. \\nOther holistic ways to relieve stomach issues:\\nIf you want to take your new digestive practice off your mat, add these simple things into your daily routine to keep your belly happy all day long! \\nTea\\nIn many scientific studies, Tea has been found to be great for digestive health because of its flavonoids. This ingredient can be found in many teas and is proven to calm the stomach and help to regulate the digestive process\\nGreen Tea\\nGreen tea is known to aid in a healthy daily detoxification because of its high levels of flavonoids which occur naturally in the fruits and veggies used to make green tea. Green tea will detox the liver and other major organs. The high level of antioxidants will keep your skin clear and refreshed as well! \\nGinger Tea\\nGinger is like nature’s pepto bismol. It can release gas and improve digestion by moving along what may be blocking your digestive process. While green tea is great for a slow all day detox, ginger tea is fast acting and gets to work immediately after drinking.\\nPeppermint Tea\\nPeppermint has been known to relieve gas, bloating and pain in the stomach. It’s a great choice for days when you feel cramping or intense stomach pain. Peppermint tea is great for staying hydrated if you’re not feeling well and is also great for a full day detox. \\nWhich brings us to our next category, When your belly is bothering you, it’s important to hydrate! It can feel overwhelming when your stomach hurts to drink water or remember to focus on your hydration, but being dehydrated could cause you much more pain or trauma. If you’re already not feeling well, try these options for hydration! \\nLemon Water\\nLemon water can aid in digestion because the citric acid in the lemon helps to break down and digest food. Lemon water also works harder to hydrate your system than plain water. It won’t run through your system or sweat out as quickly. \\nCoconut Water\\nDrinking coconut water after meals helps with digestion and helps your body to avoid bloat. The electrolytes in coconut water also help to keep your system functioning normally which promotes healthy digestion! \\nSo if you want fries on the side of your salad or ice cream after dinner tonight, no worries! Just keep this list of digestive aids handy and tomorrow, you’ll be good as new! Every day is a new day to start again…and your belly will thank you for incorporating these healthy options into your life. "}}],"blogContent":{"id":"ckl2l98cwbfzi0a26m5xsrs2p","slug":"yin-yoga-for-immunity","author":{"name":"Annelise","teacherMytSlug":null,"pictureUrl":null},"title":"10 Yin Yoga Poses for Immunity and Lymphatic Drainage","createdAt":"2021-02-12T17:52:26.929822+00:00","updatedAt":"2022-08-01T06:36:08.811295+00:00","coverUrl":"140b8b24bc1a966062f51a6eece81117.jpg","seoDescription":"Learn yoga poses for immunity and yoga for lymphatic drainage! Join MyYogaTeacher today for free to learn more!","content":{"text":"The immune system is a pretty cool thing. Until it isn’t.\\n\\nYour immune system can start to act up just like a toddler in a candy shop. When it does, you’re left with symptoms like joint inflammation, allergies, cold hands and feet, depression, bloating, brain fog, and chronic fatigue.\\n\\nAs if that’s not enough, a clogged immune system also presents as weight gain.\\n\\nAnd, in case you didn’t know, your lymphatic system and immune system are best friends. So when one isn’t acting right, the other probably isn’t either. \\n\\nYour lymphatic system is responsible for circulating lymph – aka the leftover fluids from nutrient delivery – back into the body. It maintains the fluid level in your body, absorbs fat from the digestive tract, removes germs and bacteria, and protects your body from foreign invaders.\\n\\nUnlike blood, which circulates by your heart pumping, lymph circulates by muscular contraction.\\n\\nIt’s vital that your lymph nodes (which filter the excess fluid) drain and circulate properly. Blocked lymph nodes contribute to immune system issues and vice versa.\\n\\nLymphatic yoga, and, in this case yin yoga, is perfect for restoring balance to your immune system and assists with lymphatic drainage.\\n\\nLet’s look at 10 yin yoga poses you can use to restore lymph node health! \\n\\nIf you’re already familiar with yin yoga and how it helps with immunity and lymphatic drainage, check out my \\nYin Yoga class on myYogaTeacher\\n for a well balanced class that ends with a Nidra meditation!\\n[CTA-LYMPHATIC]\\n1. Downward Facing Dog\\n\\nAny time your head is below your heart, lymph flows from the highest point in your body to the lowest due to gravity. When you come upright again, lymph passes through the lymph nodes and is cleansed.\\n\\nDownward facing dog allows this process to happen naturally. Resting your forehead on a block and relaxing your jaw, tongue and mouth, also allows the lymph to flow freely in your nose and throat area.\\nIf you are looking for yoga poses for post nasal drip, this one's definitely for you!\\n\\nHang out in this pose for 1-3 minutes and be sure to breathe deeply and evenly!\\n\\n\\n\\n\\n2. Legs Up A Wall\\n\\nSeems simple enough, right?\\n\\nPlace a rolled up blanket or towel underneath your hips and rest your legs a comfortable distance up against a wall. Be sure to keep your head and neck in a neutral position. If you can fit a small orange between your chin and neck, then you’re doing it right!\\n\\nYou’ll want to stay in this position for 3-5 minutes (or longer if you’re loving it) and take deep belly breaths. \\n\\nRelax and know that this pose is draining the lymph from your legs and feet and into your lymph nodes for cleansing!\\n\\n\\n\\n\\n3. Supine Reclined Twists\\n\\nWe’ve talked before about how twisting poses alleviate back and hip pain in previous posts. This lymphatic yoga pose is done slightly differently than static reclined twists. We’ve included it with \\nyin yoga\\n because it’s still important to perform this pose for 2-3 minutes.\\n\\nLying on your back, place your feet a little more than hip’s width apart. Knees facing the ceiling and feet flat on the floor. \\n\\nInhale, and as you exhale let your knees sway to the left or right like a windshield wiper. Inhale as your knees come up and exhale as you effortlessly let them fall to the other side. Go back and forth like this for 2-3 minutes.\\n\\nFeel free to gain some momentum with this pose as long as it is painless and remains effortless.\\n\\nTwisting poses stimulate the lymphatic system with gentle compression and help the connective tissue release lymph.\\n\\n\\n\\n\\n4. Cat and Cow Pose\\n\\nGotta love the cat and cow pose! \\n\\nThe gentle contraction of muscles in the abdomen and stretching of the hips and spine not only provides an amazing stretch for your back muscles, but helps release the lymph from those areas.\\n\\nThe gentle head movement also helps fluid release from your neck, upper chest, and armpit areas.\\n\\nPerform cat and cow pose for 2-3 minutes.\\n\\nRemember! For cat, you’re not necessarily arching your back. You’re releasing your hips upward. The arch in your back should be minimal, gentle, and should not hurt!\\n\\n\\n\\n\\n5. Seated Neck Stretches\\n\\nNeck stretches are perfect for clearing head congestion and allowing tight muscles to relax enough that they let go of the lymph so it can flow and be cleansed!\\n\\nSitting cross legged on a block or blanket, relax your shoulders down and gently tilt your ear towards your shoulder.\\n\\nNo need to strain here! Just let your head fall and keep your chin neutral, not lifted up or down. Hold each side for 30 seconds to a minute and repeat 3 times.\\n\\nYou can also do some gentle head rolls here. \\n\\n6. Standing forward bend\\n\\nGet a full spinal stretch with this pose, from your Achilles tendons all the way to your neck. Just as importantly, you’ll be allowing lymph to circulate throughout your upper body and be cleansed when you stand up. This is also a good yoga pose for post nasal drip!\\n\\nRest your head on one or two blocks to allow your jaw, neck, tongue and face to relax.\\n\\nYou’ll want to rest in this position for 2-3 minutes and roll up slowly and gently, inch by inch.\\n\\n\\n\\n\\n7. Low lunge with twist\\n\\nThere’s nothing like the sweet release that happens in your quads and hips when you do low lunge properly. It’s ahhhhhmazing! Adding a gentle twist with it creates contraction in the abdomen. \\n\\nTogether, the muscle release and compression of abdominal muscles allows lymph to release from the muscles and be pumped towards the lymph nodes.\\n\\nThere are several modifications for this pose. We have shown you one that is perfect for all body types and all skill levels.\\n\\nAnd definitely hold this pose on each side for 2-3 minutes. Feel free to put a blanket or pad under the knee area for more support!\\n\\n\\n\\n\\n8. Supported Bridge Pose\\n\\nThis one is particularly helpful if you’re feeling under the weather! \\n\\nSupported bridge pose opens up your chest for easier air movement, and using a block lengthwise under your torso allows you to relax and let gravity do all the work!\\n\\nIt also helps rejuvenate the parts of the lymphatic systems closest to your chest and helps clear up sinus drainage!\\n\\nYou’re welcome to do this pose, unsupported without the block. But either way you do it, hold this pose for 3-5 minutes for optimal effect!\\n\\n\\n\\n\\n9. Bow Pose\\n\\nSpeaking of poses for chest and airway health, bow pose is perfect if you’re having sinus issues or post nasal drip. Traditionally performed as an ab strengthening pose, bow pose also happens to help drain and bring to life the parts of the lymphatic system close to your chest.\\n\\nIt also stimulates your thymus gland, a gland in between the lungs that creates white blood cells, which are a huge part of the immune system!\\n\\nIf you’re unable to do bow pose, a modified version would be to use a strap to help you grab your feet or ankles. You can also skip grabbing your feet or ankles all together and simply reach backwards as if you were going to, but not. And then just lift your thighs up off the ground or mat.\\n\\nHold post for 10 seconds and repeat for 1 minute.\\n\\n\\n\\n\\n10. Child’s Pose\\n\\nChild’s pose is just the pose to round out any practice. That’s why we incorporate it into our \\nMyYogaTeacher classes\\n and our blog posts!\\n\\nThis pose stretches all the right places, releases all the right places, and the compression of your stomach promotes lymphatic circulation. Also, gentle rocking of your forehead on the floor during this pose will definitely help alleviate sinus drainage.\\n\\nPlus, it’s easy! No modifications needed, but if you want to rest a block under your forehead for comfort, you can!\\n\\n\\n\\n\\n\\nThere you go! These are 10 really good yoga poses for lymphatic drainage. Also, \\nyin yoga\\n is particularly good for cold and flu season (or pandemics). If you’re needing more yin yoga to boost your immune system and get your lymphatic system in check, click this link to check out my \\nYin Yoga Class on myYogaTeacher!\\n\\n\\nNot a member? That’s ok. \\nMyYogaTeacher offers a two week free trial when you sign up\\n!\\n\\nIn the meantime, drink plenty of water, get outside in nature, and when you’re ready, I’ll see you on the mat!\\n\\n[CTA-1]\\n","html":"<p>The immune system is a pretty cool thing. Until it isn’t.</p><p></p><p>Your immune system can start to act up just like a toddler in a candy shop. When it does, you’re left with symptoms like joint inflammation, allergies, cold hands and feet, depression, bloating, brain fog, and chronic fatigue.</p><p></p><p>As if that’s not enough, a clogged immune system also presents as weight gain.</p><p></p><p>And, in case you didn’t know, your lymphatic system and immune system are best friends. So when one isn’t acting right, the other probably isn’t either. </p><p></p><p>Your lymphatic system is responsible for circulating lymph – aka the leftover fluids from nutrient delivery – back into the body. It maintains the fluid level in your body, absorbs fat from the digestive tract, removes germs and bacteria, and protects your body from foreign invaders.</p><p></p><p>Unlike blood, which circulates by your heart pumping, lymph circulates by muscular contraction.</p><p></p><p>It’s vital that your lymph nodes (which filter the excess fluid) drain and circulate properly. Blocked lymph nodes contribute to immune system issues and vice versa.</p><p></p><p>Lymphatic yoga, and, in this case yin yoga, is perfect for restoring balance to your immune system and assists with lymphatic drainage.</p><p></p><p>Let’s look at 10 yin yoga poses you can use to restore lymph node health! </p><p></p><p>If you’re already familiar with yin yoga and how it helps with immunity and lymphatic drainage, check out my <a title=\"https://www.myyogateacher.com/group_classes/yin-yoga-by-annelise\" href=\"https://www.myyogateacher.com/group_classes/yin-yoga-by-annelise\">Yin Yoga class on myYogaTeacher</a> for a well balanced class that ends with a Nidra meditation!</p><p>[CTA-LYMPHATIC]</p><h2>1. Downward Facing Dog</h2><p></p><p>Any time your head is below your heart, lymph flows from the highest point in your body to the lowest due to gravity. When you come upright again, lymph passes through the lymph nodes and is cleansed.</p><p></p><p>Downward facing dog allows this process to happen naturally. Resting your forehead on a block and relaxing your jaw, tongue and mouth, also allows the lymph to flow freely in your nose and throat area.</p><p>If you are looking for yoga poses for post nasal drip, this one's definitely for you!</p><p></p><p>Hang out in this pose for 1-3 minutes and be sure to breathe deeply and evenly!</p><p></p><p></p><img src=\"https://media.graphcms.com/resize=width:5617,height:3744/XzvhYaRkSNe2pjWteORi\" alt=\"Downward Facing Dog\" title=\"pexels-elly-fairytale-3822118.jpg\" width=\"5617\" height=\"3744\" /><p></p><h2>2. Legs Up A Wall</h2><p></p><p>Seems simple enough, right?</p><p></p><p>Place a rolled up blanket or towel underneath your hips and rest your legs a comfortable distance up against a wall. Be sure to keep your head and neck in a neutral position. If you can fit a small orange between your chin and neck, then you’re doing it right!</p><p></p><p>You’ll want to stay in this position for 3-5 minutes (or longer if you’re loving it) and take deep belly breaths. </p><p></p><p>Relax and know that this pose is draining the lymph from your legs and feet and into your lymph nodes for cleansing!</p><p></p><p></p><img src=\"https://media.graphcms.com/resize=width:850,height:478/HOBOfA73RsatDpm3fSDW\" alt=\"Legs up on wall\" title=\"yoga_at_the_wall_5_poses_to_soothe_your_body_and_mind.png\" width=\"850\" height=\"478\" /><p></p><h2>3. Supine Reclined Twists</h2><p></p><p>We’ve talked before about how twisting poses alleviate back and hip pain in previous posts. This lymphatic yoga pose is done slightly differently than static reclined twists. We’ve included it with <a target='_blank' title=\"https://www.myyogateacher.com/yoga-online-classes/yin-yoga\" href=\"https://www.myyogateacher.com/yoga-online-classes/yin-yoga\">yin yoga</a> because it’s still important to perform this pose for 2-3 minutes.</p><p></p><p>Lying on your back, place your feet a little more than hip’s width apart. Knees facing the ceiling and feet flat on the floor. </p><p></p><p>Inhale, and as you exhale let your knees sway to the left or right like a windshield wiper. Inhale as your knees come up and exhale as you effortlessly let them fall to the other side. Go back and forth like this for 2-3 minutes.</p><p></p><p>Feel free to gain some momentum with this pose as long as it is painless and remains effortless.</p><p></p><p>Twisting poses stimulate the lymphatic system with gentle compression and help the connective tissue release lymph.</p><p></p><p></p><img src=\"https://media.graphcms.com/resize=width:900,height:600/gHc9UztiQySVrxl7zDyS\" alt=\"Supine Reclined Twist\" title=\"Windshield-wiper.jpg\" width=\"900\" height=\"600\" /><p></p><h2>4. Cat and Cow Pose</h2><p></p><p>Gotta love the cat and cow pose! </p><p></p><p>The gentle contraction of muscles in the abdomen and stretching of the hips and spine not only provides an amazing stretch for your back muscles, but helps release the lymph from those areas.</p><p></p><p>The gentle head movement also helps fluid release from your neck, upper chest, and armpit areas.</p><p></p><p>Perform cat and cow pose for 2-3 minutes.</p><p></p><p>Remember! For cat, you’re not necessarily arching your back. You’re releasing your hips upward. The arch in your back should be minimal, gentle, and should not hurt!</p><p></p><p></p><img src=\"https://media.graphcms.com/resize=width:550,height:550/OEsaBjGQwq3G6BC88e9g\" alt=\"Cat & Cow Pose\" title=\"1d0957d55d96b26a_Cat-Cow-Pose.jpg\" width=\"550\" height=\"550\" /><p></p><h2>5. Seated Neck Stretches</h2><p></p><p>Neck stretches are perfect for clearing head congestion and allowing tight muscles to relax enough that they let go of the lymph so it can flow and be cleansed!</p><p></p><p>Sitting cross legged on a block or blanket, relax your shoulders down and gently tilt your ear towards your shoulder.</p><p></p><p>No need to strain here! Just let your head fall and keep your chin neutral, not lifted up or down. Hold each side for 30 seconds to a minute and repeat 3 times.</p><p></p><p>You can also do some gentle head rolls here. </p><p></p><h2>6. Standing forward bend</h2><p></p><p>Get a full spinal stretch with this pose, from your Achilles tendons all the way to your neck. Just as importantly, you’ll be allowing lymph to circulate throughout your upper body and be cleansed when you stand up. This is also a good yoga pose for post nasal drip!</p><p></p><p>Rest your head on one or two blocks to allow your jaw, neck, tongue and face to relax.</p><p></p><p>You’ll want to rest in this position for 2-3 minutes and roll up slowly and gently, inch by inch.</p><p></p><p></p><img src=\"https://media.graphcms.com/resize=width:1024,height:576/UvjmdJ6SR3irVVK5zV00\" alt=\"Standing Forward Bend\" title=\"standing-forward-fold-share.jpg\" width=\"1024\" height=\"576\" /><p></p><h2>7. Low lunge with twist</h2><p></p><p>There’s nothing like the sweet release that happens in your quads and hips when you do low lunge properly. It’s ahhhhhmazing! Adding a gentle twist with it creates contraction in the abdomen. </p><p></p><p>Together, the muscle release and compression of abdominal muscles allows lymph to release from the muscles and be pumped towards the lymph nodes.</p><p></p><p>There are several modifications for this pose. We have shown you one that is perfect for all body types and all skill levels.</p><p></p><p>And definitely hold this pose on each side for 2-3 minutes. Feel free to put a blanket or pad under the knee area for more support!</p><p></p><p></p><img src=\"https://media.graphcms.com/resize=width:760,height:428/fxDIrcvlT2aOMitGMsZ0\" alt=\"Low Lunge Twist\" title=\"low-lunge-with-twist.jpg\" width=\"760\" height=\"428\" /><p></p><h2>8. Supported Bridge Pose</h2><p></p><p>This one is particularly helpful if you’re feeling under the weather! </p><p></p><p>Supported bridge pose opens up your chest for easier air movement, and using a block lengthwise under your torso allows you to relax and let gravity do all the work!</p><p></p><p>It also helps rejuvenate the parts of the lymphatic systems closest to your chest and helps clear up sinus drainage!</p><p></p><p>You’re welcome to do this pose, unsupported without the block. But either way you do it, hold this pose for 3-5 minutes for optimal effect!</p><p></p><p></p><img src=\"https://media.graphcms.com/resize=width:1024,height:564/EoXOkWcPRDuJwZYBbr1L\" alt=\"Supported Bridge Pose\" title=\"supported-bridge-pose-2.jpg\" width=\"1024\" height=\"564\" /><p></p><h2>9. Bow Pose</h2><p></p><p>Speaking of poses for chest and airway health, bow pose is perfect if you’re having sinus issues or post nasal drip. Traditionally performed as an ab strengthening pose, bow pose also happens to help drain and bring to life the parts of the lymphatic system close to your chest.</p><p></p><p>It also stimulates your thymus gland, a gland in between the lungs that creates white blood cells, which are a huge part of the immune system!</p><p></p><p>If you’re unable to do bow pose, a modified version would be to use a strap to help you grab your feet or ankles. You can also skip grabbing your feet or ankles all together and simply reach backwards as if you were going to, but not. And then just lift your thighs up off the ground or mat.</p><p></p><p>Hold post for 10 seconds and repeat for 1 minute.</p><p></p><p></p><p></p><img src=\"https://media.graphcms.com/resize=width:1100,height:826/IkeNcgStQTKmJq6aex33\" alt=\"Bow Pose\" title=\"a-woman-doing-the-bow-yoga-pose.jpg\" width=\"1100\" height=\"826\" /><h2>10. Child’s Pose</h2><p></p><p>Child’s pose is just the pose to round out any practice. That’s why we incorporate it into our <a title=\"https://www.myyogateacher.com/\" href=\"https://www.myyogateacher.com/\">MyYogaTeacher classes</a> and our blog posts!</p><p></p><p>This pose stretches all the right places, releases all the right places, and the compression of your stomach promotes lymphatic circulation. Also, gentle rocking of your forehead on the floor during this pose will definitely help alleviate sinus drainage.</p><p></p><p>Plus, it’s easy! No modifications needed, but if you want to rest a block under your forehead for comfort, you can!</p><p></p><p></p><img src=\"https://media.graphcms.com/resize=width:2500,height:1667/jyMT8QhTmOR3q4FEAW0O\" alt=\"Child's Pose\" title=\"ChildsPose-5c5d94ce46e0fb00017dd0d9.jpg\" width=\"2500\" height=\"1667\" /><p></p><p></p><p>There you go! These are 10 really good yoga poses for lymphatic drainage. Also, <a target='_blank' title=\"https://www.myyogateacher.com/yoga-online-classes/yin-yoga\" href=\"https://www.myyogateacher.com/yoga-online-classes/yin-yoga\">yin yoga</a> is particularly good for cold and flu season (or pandemics). If you’re needing more yin yoga to boost your immune system and get your lymphatic system in check, click this link to check out my <a title=\"https://www.myyogateacher.com/group_classes/yin-yoga-by-annelise\" href=\"https://www.myyogateacher.com/group_classes/yin-yoga-by-annelise\">Yin Yoga Class on myYogaTeacher!</a></p><p></p><p>Not a member? That’s ok. <a title=\"https://www.myyogateacher.com/\" href=\"https://www.myyogateacher.com/\">MyYogaTeacher offers a two week free trial when you sign up</a>!</p><p></p><p>In the meantime, drink plenty of water, get outside in nature, and when you’re ready, I’ll see you on the mat!</p><p></p><p>[CTA-1]</p><p></p>"},"category":["fitness","yoga_poses"],"utmCampaign":null,"utmMedium":null,"utmContent":null,"utmSource":null,"utmTerm":null,"utmSearchString":null,"imageHyperlink":[]},"loading":false,"blog_content":[{"type":"HTML","value":"<p>The immune system is a pretty cool thing. Until it isn’t.</p><p></p><p>Your immune system can start to act up just like a toddler in a candy shop. When it does, you’re left with symptoms like joint inflammation, allergies, cold hands and feet, depression, bloating, brain fog, and chronic fatigue.</p><p></p><p>As if that’s not enough, a clogged immune system also presents as weight gain.</p><p></p><p>And, in case you didn’t know, your lymphatic system and immune system are best friends. So when one isn’t acting right, the other probably isn’t either. </p><p></p><p>Your lymphatic system is responsible for circulating lymph – aka the leftover fluids from nutrient delivery – back into the body. It maintains the fluid level in your body, absorbs fat from the digestive tract, removes germs and bacteria, and protects your body from foreign invaders.</p><p></p><p>Unlike blood, which circulates by your heart pumping, lymph circulates by muscular contraction.</p><p></p><p>It’s vital that your lymph nodes (which filter the excess fluid) drain and circulate properly. Blocked lymph nodes contribute to immune system issues and vice versa.</p><p></p><p>Lymphatic yoga, and, in this case yin yoga, is perfect for restoring balance to your immune system and assists with lymphatic drainage.</p><p></p><p>Let’s look at 10 yin yoga poses you can use to restore lymph node health! </p><p></p><p>If you’re already familiar with yin yoga and how it helps with immunity and lymphatic drainage, check out my <a title=\"https://www.myyogateacher.com/group_classes/yin-yoga-by-annelise\" href=\"https://www.myyogateacher.com/group_classes/yin-yoga-by-annelise\">Yin Yoga class on myYogaTeacher</a> for a well balanced class that ends with a Nidra meditation!</p>"},{"type":"CTA","value":"[CTA-LYMPHATIC]"},{"type":"HTML","value":"<h2>1. Downward Facing Dog</h2><p></p><p>Any time your head is below your heart, lymph flows from the highest point in your body to the lowest due to gravity. When you come upright again, lymph passes through the lymph nodes and is cleansed.</p><p></p><p>Downward facing dog allows this process to happen naturally. Resting your forehead on a block and relaxing your jaw, tongue and mouth, also allows the lymph to flow freely in your nose and throat area.</p><p>If you are looking for yoga poses for post nasal drip, this one's definitely for you!</p><p></p><p>Hang out in this pose for 1-3 minutes and be sure to breathe deeply and evenly!</p><p></p><p></p>\n <picture>\n <source \n type=\"image/webp\"\n data-srcset=\"https://media.graphcms.com/resize=w:930,fit:crop/quality=value:75/output=format:webp/compress/resize=width:5617,height:3744/XzvhYaRkSNe2pjWteORi\" \n alt=\"Downward Facing Dog\"\n title=\"Downward Facing Dog\"\n \n \n class=\"lazyLoadingImg\"\n />\n <source \n type=\"image/jpg\"\n data-srcset=\"https://media.graphcms.com/resize=w:930,fit:crop/quality=value:75/output=format:jpg/resize=width:5617,height:3744/XzvhYaRkSNe2pjWteORi\"\n alt=\"Downward Facing Dog\"\n title=\"Downward Facing Dog\"\n \n \n class=\"lazyLoadingImg\"\n />\n <img \n data-srcset=\"https://media.graphcms.com/resize=w:930,fit:crop/quality=value:75/output=format:jpg/resize=width:5617,height:3744/XzvhYaRkSNe2pjWteORi\"\n alt=\"Downward Facing Dog\"\n title=\"Downward Facing Dog\"\n \n \n class=\"lazyLoadingImg\"\n />\n </picture>\n <p></p><h2>2. Legs Up A Wall</h2><p></p><p>Seems simple enough, right?</p><p></p><p>Place a rolled up blanket or towel underneath your hips and rest your legs a comfortable distance up against a wall. Be sure to keep your head and neck in a neutral position. If you can fit a small orange between your chin and neck, then you’re doing it right!</p><p></p><p>You’ll want to stay in this position for 3-5 minutes (or longer if you’re loving it) and take deep belly breaths. </p><p></p><p>Relax and know that this pose is draining the lymph from your legs and feet and into your lymph nodes for cleansing!</p><p></p><p></p>\n <picture>\n <source \n type=\"image/webp\"\n data-srcset=\"https://media.graphcms.com/resize=w:930,fit:crop/quality=value:75/output=format:webp/compress/resize=width:850,height:478/HOBOfA73RsatDpm3fSDW\" \n alt=\"Legs up on wall\"\n title=\"Legs up on wall\"\n \n \n class=\"lazyLoadingImg\"\n />\n <source \n type=\"image/jpg\"\n data-srcset=\"https://media.graphcms.com/resize=w:930,fit:crop/quality=value:75/output=format:jpg/resize=width:850,height:478/HOBOfA73RsatDpm3fSDW\"\n alt=\"Legs up on wall\"\n title=\"Legs up on wall\"\n \n \n class=\"lazyLoadingImg\"\n />\n <img \n data-srcset=\"https://media.graphcms.com/resize=w:930,fit:crop/quality=value:75/output=format:jpg/resize=width:850,height:478/HOBOfA73RsatDpm3fSDW\"\n alt=\"Legs up on wall\"\n title=\"Legs up on wall\"\n \n \n class=\"lazyLoadingImg\"\n />\n </picture>\n <p></p><h2>3. Supine Reclined Twists</h2><p></p><p>We’ve talked before about how twisting poses alleviate back and hip pain in previous posts. This lymphatic yoga pose is done slightly differently than static reclined twists. We’ve included it with <a target='_blank' title=\"https://www.myyogateacher.com/yoga-online-classes/yin-yoga\" href=\"https://www.myyogateacher.com/yoga-online-classes/yin-yoga\">yin yoga</a> because it’s still important to perform this pose for 2-3 minutes.</p><p></p><p>Lying on your back, place your feet a little more than hip’s width apart. Knees facing the ceiling and feet flat on the floor. </p><p></p><p>Inhale, and as you exhale let your knees sway to the left or right like a windshield wiper. Inhale as your knees come up and exhale as you effortlessly let them fall to the other side. Go back and forth like this for 2-3 minutes.</p><p></p><p>Feel free to gain some momentum with this pose as long as it is painless and remains effortless.</p><p></p><p>Twisting poses stimulate the lymphatic system with gentle compression and help the connective tissue release lymph.</p><p></p><p></p>\n <picture>\n <source \n type=\"image/webp\"\n data-srcset=\"https://media.graphcms.com/resize=w:930,fit:crop/quality=value:75/output=format:webp/compress/resize=width:900,height:600/gHc9UztiQySVrxl7zDyS\" \n alt=\"Supine Reclined Twist\"\n title=\"Supine Reclined Twist\"\n \n \n class=\"lazyLoadingImg\"\n />\n <source \n type=\"image/jpg\"\n data-srcset=\"https://media.graphcms.com/resize=w:930,fit:crop/quality=value:75/output=format:jpg/resize=width:900,height:600/gHc9UztiQySVrxl7zDyS\"\n alt=\"Supine Reclined Twist\"\n title=\"Supine Reclined Twist\"\n \n \n class=\"lazyLoadingImg\"\n />\n <img \n data-srcset=\"https://media.graphcms.com/resize=w:930,fit:crop/quality=value:75/output=format:jpg/resize=width:900,height:600/gHc9UztiQySVrxl7zDyS\"\n alt=\"Supine Reclined Twist\"\n title=\"Supine Reclined Twist\"\n \n \n class=\"lazyLoadingImg\"\n />\n </picture>\n <p></p><h2>4. Cat and Cow Pose</h2><p></p><p>Gotta love the cat and cow pose! </p><p></p><p>The gentle contraction of muscles in the abdomen and stretching of the hips and spine not only provides an amazing stretch for your back muscles, but helps release the lymph from those areas.</p><p></p><p>The gentle head movement also helps fluid release from your neck, upper chest, and armpit areas.</p><p></p><p>Perform cat and cow pose for 2-3 minutes.</p><p></p><p>Remember! For cat, you’re not necessarily arching your back. You’re releasing your hips upward. The arch in your back should be minimal, gentle, and should not hurt!</p><p></p><p></p>\n <picture>\n <source \n type=\"image/webp\"\n data-srcset=\"https://media.graphcms.com/resize=w:930,fit:crop/quality=value:75/output=format:webp/compress/resize=width:550,height:550/OEsaBjGQwq3G6BC88e9g\" \n alt=\"Cat & Cow Pose\"\n title=\"Cat & Cow Pose\"\n \n \n class=\"lazyLoadingImg\"\n />\n <source \n type=\"image/jpg\"\n data-srcset=\"https://media.graphcms.com/resize=w:930,fit:crop/quality=value:75/output=format:jpg/resize=width:550,height:550/OEsaBjGQwq3G6BC88e9g\"\n alt=\"Cat & Cow Pose\"\n title=\"Cat & Cow Pose\"\n \n \n class=\"lazyLoadingImg\"\n />\n <img \n data-srcset=\"https://media.graphcms.com/resize=w:930,fit:crop/quality=value:75/output=format:jpg/resize=width:550,height:550/OEsaBjGQwq3G6BC88e9g\"\n alt=\"Cat & Cow Pose\"\n title=\"Cat & Cow Pose\"\n \n \n class=\"lazyLoadingImg\"\n />\n </picture>\n <p></p><h2>5. Seated Neck Stretches</h2><p></p><p>Neck stretches are perfect for clearing head congestion and allowing tight muscles to relax enough that they let go of the lymph so it can flow and be cleansed!</p><p></p><p>Sitting cross legged on a block or blanket, relax your shoulders down and gently tilt your ear towards your shoulder.</p><p></p><p>No need to strain here! Just let your head fall and keep your chin neutral, not lifted up or down. Hold each side for 30 seconds to a minute and repeat 3 times.</p><p></p><p>You can also do some gentle head rolls here. </p><p></p><h2>6. Standing forward bend</h2><p></p><p>Get a full spinal stretch with this pose, from your Achilles tendons all the way to your neck. Just as importantly, you’ll be allowing lymph to circulate throughout your upper body and be cleansed when you stand up. This is also a good yoga pose for post nasal drip!</p><p></p><p>Rest your head on one or two blocks to allow your jaw, neck, tongue and face to relax.</p><p></p><p>You’ll want to rest in this position for 2-3 minutes and roll up slowly and gently, inch by inch.</p><p></p><p></p>\n <picture>\n <source \n type=\"image/webp\"\n data-srcset=\"https://media.graphcms.com/resize=w:930,fit:crop/quality=value:75/output=format:webp/compress/resize=width:1024,height:576/UvjmdJ6SR3irVVK5zV00\" \n alt=\"Standing Forward Bend\"\n title=\"Standing Forward Bend\"\n \n \n class=\"lazyLoadingImg\"\n />\n <source \n type=\"image/jpg\"\n data-srcset=\"https://media.graphcms.com/resize=w:930,fit:crop/quality=value:75/output=format:jpg/resize=width:1024,height:576/UvjmdJ6SR3irVVK5zV00\"\n alt=\"Standing Forward Bend\"\n title=\"Standing Forward Bend\"\n \n \n class=\"lazyLoadingImg\"\n />\n <img \n data-srcset=\"https://media.graphcms.com/resize=w:930,fit:crop/quality=value:75/output=format:jpg/resize=width:1024,height:576/UvjmdJ6SR3irVVK5zV00\"\n alt=\"Standing Forward Bend\"\n title=\"Standing Forward Bend\"\n \n \n class=\"lazyLoadingImg\"\n />\n </picture>\n <p></p><h2>7. Low lunge with twist</h2><p></p><p>There’s nothing like the sweet release that happens in your quads and hips when you do low lunge properly. It’s ahhhhhmazing! Adding a gentle twist with it creates contraction in the abdomen. </p><p></p><p>Together, the muscle release and compression of abdominal muscles allows lymph to release from the muscles and be pumped towards the lymph nodes.</p><p></p><p>There are several modifications for this pose. We have shown you one that is perfect for all body types and all skill levels.</p><p></p><p>And definitely hold this pose on each side for 2-3 minutes. Feel free to put a blanket or pad under the knee area for more support!</p><p></p><p></p>\n <picture>\n <source \n type=\"image/webp\"\n data-srcset=\"https://media.graphcms.com/resize=w:930,fit:crop/quality=value:75/output=format:webp/compress/resize=width:760,height:428/fxDIrcvlT2aOMitGMsZ0\" \n alt=\"Low Lunge Twist\"\n title=\"Low Lunge Twist\"\n \n \n class=\"lazyLoadingImg\"\n />\n <source \n type=\"image/jpg\"\n data-srcset=\"https://media.graphcms.com/resize=w:930,fit:crop/quality=value:75/output=format:jpg/resize=width:760,height:428/fxDIrcvlT2aOMitGMsZ0\"\n alt=\"Low Lunge Twist\"\n title=\"Low Lunge Twist\"\n \n \n class=\"lazyLoadingImg\"\n />\n <img \n data-srcset=\"https://media.graphcms.com/resize=w:930,fit:crop/quality=value:75/output=format:jpg/resize=width:760,height:428/fxDIrcvlT2aOMitGMsZ0\"\n alt=\"Low Lunge Twist\"\n title=\"Low Lunge Twist\"\n \n \n class=\"lazyLoadingImg\"\n />\n </picture>\n <p></p><h2>8. Supported Bridge Pose</h2><p></p><p>This one is particularly helpful if you’re feeling under the weather! </p><p></p><p>Supported bridge pose opens up your chest for easier air movement, and using a block lengthwise under your torso allows you to relax and let gravity do all the work!</p><p></p><p>It also helps rejuvenate the parts of the lymphatic systems closest to your chest and helps clear up sinus drainage!</p><p></p><p>You’re welcome to do this pose, unsupported without the block. But either way you do it, hold this pose for 3-5 minutes for optimal effect!</p><p></p><p></p>\n <picture>\n <source \n type=\"image/webp\"\n data-srcset=\"https://media.graphcms.com/resize=w:930,fit:crop/quality=value:75/output=format:webp/compress/resize=width:1024,height:564/EoXOkWcPRDuJwZYBbr1L\" \n alt=\"Supported Bridge Pose\"\n title=\"Supported Bridge Pose\"\n \n \n class=\"lazyLoadingImg\"\n />\n <source \n type=\"image/jpg\"\n data-srcset=\"https://media.graphcms.com/resize=w:930,fit:crop/quality=value:75/output=format:jpg/resize=width:1024,height:564/EoXOkWcPRDuJwZYBbr1L\"\n alt=\"Supported Bridge Pose\"\n title=\"Supported Bridge Pose\"\n \n \n class=\"lazyLoadingImg\"\n />\n <img \n data-srcset=\"https://media.graphcms.com/resize=w:930,fit:crop/quality=value:75/output=format:jpg/resize=width:1024,height:564/EoXOkWcPRDuJwZYBbr1L\"\n alt=\"Supported Bridge Pose\"\n title=\"Supported Bridge Pose\"\n \n \n class=\"lazyLoadingImg\"\n />\n </picture>\n <p></p><h2>9. Bow Pose</h2><p></p><p>Speaking of poses for chest and airway health, bow pose is perfect if you’re having sinus issues or post nasal drip. Traditionally performed as an ab strengthening pose, bow pose also happens to help drain and bring to life the parts of the lymphatic system close to your chest.</p><p></p><p>It also stimulates your thymus gland, a gland in between the lungs that creates white blood cells, which are a huge part of the immune system!</p><p></p><p>If you’re unable to do bow pose, a modified version would be to use a strap to help you grab your feet or ankles. You can also skip grabbing your feet or ankles all together and simply reach backwards as if you were going to, but not. And then just lift your thighs up off the ground or mat.</p><p></p><p>Hold post for 10 seconds and repeat for 1 minute.</p><p></p><p></p><p></p>\n <picture>\n <source \n type=\"image/webp\"\n data-srcset=\"https://media.graphcms.com/resize=w:930,fit:crop/quality=value:75/output=format:webp/compress/resize=width:1100,height:826/IkeNcgStQTKmJq6aex33\" \n alt=\"Bow Pose\"\n title=\"Bow Pose\"\n \n \n class=\"lazyLoadingImg\"\n />\n <source \n type=\"image/jpg\"\n data-srcset=\"https://media.graphcms.com/resize=w:930,fit:crop/quality=value:75/output=format:jpg/resize=width:1100,height:826/IkeNcgStQTKmJq6aex33\"\n alt=\"Bow Pose\"\n title=\"Bow Pose\"\n \n \n class=\"lazyLoadingImg\"\n />\n <img \n data-srcset=\"https://media.graphcms.com/resize=w:930,fit:crop/quality=value:75/output=format:jpg/resize=width:1100,height:826/IkeNcgStQTKmJq6aex33\"\n alt=\"Bow Pose\"\n title=\"Bow Pose\"\n \n \n class=\"lazyLoadingImg\"\n />\n </picture>\n <h2>10. Child’s Pose</h2><p></p><p>Child’s pose is just the pose to round out any practice. That’s why we incorporate it into our <a\n class=\"inline-cta\"\n id=92bc513c-2d17-4184-83fe-66b0e44d8dea\n href=\"/free-trial-o?utm_source=MYT__article&utm_medium=ckl2l98cwbfzi0a26m5xsrs2p&utm_campaign=inline_cta&utm_content=CTA-INLINE&entity_name=10 Yin Yoga Poses for Immunity and Lymphatic Drainage&entity_slug=yin-yoga-for-immunity&page_or_popup=/articles/yin-yoga-for-immunity&entity_location=hyperlink_midst_of_article&article_cta=CTA-INLINE&from_article_page=true\"\n onclick=trigger_mixpanel_sign_up_cta(\"92bc513c-2d17-4184-83fe-66b0e44d8dea\")\n title=\"https://www.myyogateacher.com/\" \n data-title=\"10 Yin Yoga Poses for Immunity and Lymphatic Drainage\"\n data-slug=\"yin-yoga-for-immunity\"\n <u>MyYogaTeacher classes</a></u> \n </a> and our blog posts!</p><p></p><p>This pose stretches all the right places, releases all the right places, and the compression of your stomach promotes lymphatic circulation. Also, gentle rocking of your forehead on the floor during this pose will definitely help alleviate sinus drainage.</p><p></p><p>Plus, it’s easy! No modifications needed, but if you want to rest a block under your forehead for comfort, you can!</p><p></p><p></p>\n <picture>\n <source \n type=\"image/webp\"\n data-srcset=\"https://media.graphcms.com/resize=w:930,fit:crop/quality=value:75/output=format:webp/compress/resize=width:2500,height:1667/jyMT8QhTmOR3q4FEAW0O\" \n alt=\"Child's Pose\"\n title=\"Child's Pose\"\n \n \n class=\"lazyLoadingImg\"\n />\n <source \n type=\"image/jpg\"\n data-srcset=\"https://media.graphcms.com/resize=w:930,fit:crop/quality=value:75/output=format:jpg/resize=width:2500,height:1667/jyMT8QhTmOR3q4FEAW0O\"\n alt=\"Child's Pose\"\n title=\"Child's Pose\"\n \n \n class=\"lazyLoadingImg\"\n />\n <img \n data-srcset=\"https://media.graphcms.com/resize=w:930,fit:crop/quality=value:75/output=format:jpg/resize=width:2500,height:1667/jyMT8QhTmOR3q4FEAW0O\"\n alt=\"Child's Pose\"\n title=\"Child's Pose\"\n \n \n class=\"lazyLoadingImg\"\n />\n </picture>\n <p></p><p></p><p>There you go! These are 10 really good yoga poses for lymphatic drainage. Also, <a target='_blank' title=\"https://www.myyogateacher.com/yoga-online-classes/yin-yoga\" href=\"https://www.myyogateacher.com/yoga-online-classes/yin-yoga\">yin yoga</a> is particularly good for cold and flu season (or pandemics). If you’re needing more yin yoga to boost your immune system and get your lymphatic system in check, click this link to check out my <a title=\"https://www.myyogateacher.com/group_classes/yin-yoga-by-annelise\" href=\"https://www.myyogateacher.com/group_classes/yin-yoga-by-annelise\">Yin Yoga Class on myYogaTeacher!</a></p><p></p><p>Not a member? That’s ok. <a\n class=\"inline-cta\"\n id=f36f3594-88c0-4d50-b59f-8d501c8b87a2\n href=\"/free-trial-o?utm_source=MYT__article&utm_medium=ckl2l98cwbfzi0a26m5xsrs2p&utm_campaign=inline_cta&utm_content=CTA-INLINE&entity_name=10 Yin Yoga Poses for Immunity and Lymphatic Drainage&entity_slug=yin-yoga-for-immunity&page_or_popup=/articles/yin-yoga-for-immunity&entity_location=hyperlink_midst_of_article&article_cta=CTA-INLINE&from_article_page=true\"\n onclick=trigger_mixpanel_sign_up_cta(\"f36f3594-88c0-4d50-b59f-8d501c8b87a2\")\n title=\"https://www.myyogateacher.com/\" \n data-title=\"10 Yin Yoga Poses for Immunity and Lymphatic Drainage\"\n data-slug=\"yin-yoga-for-immunity\"\n <u>MyYogaTeacher offers a two week free trial when you sign up</a></u> \n </a>!</p><p></p><p>In the meantime, drink plenty of water, get outside in nature, and when you’re ready, I’ll see you on the mat!</p><p></p>"},{"type":"CTA","value":"[CTA-1]"},{"type":"HTML","value":"<p></p>"},{"type":"CTA","value":"[CTA-DEFAULT]"}],"isSlugACategory":false,"searchCategory":"yin-yoga-for-immunity","showPopUp":false,"popUpType":null,"showedPopup":false,"windowWidth":null,"ctaPath":"free-trial-o","redirectURL":"#","current_url":"https://www.myyogateacher.com/articles/yin-yoga-for-immunity","student_details":"","facebookUrl":"","twitterUrl":"","copyUrl":"","emailUrl":"","ctaContent":[{"id":"ckxrz2i14tov40c25g1dpicsg","name":"[CTA-DEFAULT]","description":{"html":"<p><strong>Get 2 free private yoga sessions and 2 weeks of unlimited group classes</strong> with authentic yoga teachers. 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No credit card required when you sign up today!</p>"},"title":{"html":"<p><strong>Online Hatha Yoga Sessions – </strong><u><strong>Live & Interactive</strong></u></p><p><strong>with Authentic Indian Teachers</strong></p><p></p>"},"linkText":"Start Free Trial","linkUrl":"https://www.myyogateacher.com/signup"},{"id":"cky90p88g3zgc0d23yz6taont","name":"[CTA-NASAL]","description":{"html":"<p><strong>Get 2 free private sessions </strong>to relieve post nasal drip and clear out your sinus. </p><p><strong>PLUS, 2 weeks of unlimited group classes </strong>with authentic Indian yoga teachers. 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No credit card required when you sign up today!</p>"},"title":{"html":"<p><strong>Online Yoga Sessions – </strong><u><strong>Live & Interactive</strong></u></p><p><strong>Learn Trataka (Candle Gazing) Meditation Today!</strong></p><p></p>"},"linkText":"Start Free Trial","linkUrl":"https://www.myyogateacher.com/signup"},{"id":"ckyisqh482ck60b79rp1r1jcg","name":"[CTA-YIN]","description":{"html":"<p><strong>Get 2 free private yoga sessions</strong>, work with an experienced yoga therapist to reduce (and even eliminate) your back pain. <strong>PLUS 2 weeks of unlimited group classes </strong>(like ‘Yoga for Back Pain’) with authentic yoga teachers. 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No credit card required when you sign up today!</p>"},"title":{"html":"<p><strong>Online Yoga Sessions – </strong><u><strong>Live & Interactive</strong></u></p><p><strong> Learn Beginner, Intermediate, and Advanced Pranayama!</strong></p>"},"linkText":"Start Free Trial","linkUrl":"https://www.myyogateacher.com/signup"},{"id":"ckykb6i2o1o7f0b368s1m7qow","name":"[CTA-LYMPHATIC]","description":{"html":"<p><strong>Get 2 free private yoga sessions</strong> for lymphatic drainage & immunity enhancement. <strong>PLUS 2 weeks of unlimited group yoga classes</strong> (including daily yin-yoga) when you sign up today! No credit card required to sign up.</p><p></p>"},"title":{"html":"<p><strong>Online Yoga Sessions – </strong><u><strong>Live & Interactive</strong></u></p><p><strong>for Lymphatic Drainage & Boosting Your Immune System!</strong></p>"},"linkText":"Start Free Trial","linkUrl":"https://www.myyogateacher.com/signup"},{"id":"cl2vqlpyfe3yh0biohgxyx2hg","name":"[CTA-LEAD]","description":{"html":"<p>Lead Form</p>"},"title":{"html":"<p>Lead Form</p>"},"linkText":"Start Free Trial","linkUrl":"https://www.myyogateacher.com/signup"},{"id":"cl4gnwnrlga640ck37gutx7sn","name":"[CTA-GC]","description":{"html":"<p>CTA-GC</p>"},"title":{"html":"<p>CTA-GC</p>"},"linkText":"Start Free Trial","linkUrl":"https://www.myyogateacher.com/signup"}],"post":{"id":"ckl2l98cwbfzi0a26m5xsrs2p","slug":"yin-yoga-for-immunity","author":{"name":"Annelise","teacherMytSlug":null,"pictureUrl":null},"title":"10 Yin Yoga Poses for Immunity and Lymphatic Drainage","createdAt":"2021-02-12T17:52:26.929822+00:00","updatedAt":"2022-08-01T06:36:08.811295+00:00","coverUrl":"140b8b24bc1a966062f51a6eece81117.jpg","seoDescription":"Learn yoga poses for immunity and yoga for lymphatic drainage! Join MyYogaTeacher today for free to learn more!","content":{"text":"The immune system is a pretty cool thing. Until it isn’t.\\n\\nYour immune system can start to act up just like a toddler in a candy shop. When it does, you’re left with symptoms like joint inflammation, allergies, cold hands and feet, depression, bloating, brain fog, and chronic fatigue.\\n\\nAs if that’s not enough, a clogged immune system also presents as weight gain.\\n\\nAnd, in case you didn’t know, your lymphatic system and immune system are best friends. So when one isn’t acting right, the other probably isn’t either. \\n\\nYour lymphatic system is responsible for circulating lymph – aka the leftover fluids from nutrient delivery – back into the body. It maintains the fluid level in your body, absorbs fat from the digestive tract, removes germs and bacteria, and protects your body from foreign invaders.\\n\\nUnlike blood, which circulates by your heart pumping, lymph circulates by muscular contraction.\\n\\nIt’s vital that your lymph nodes (which filter the excess fluid) drain and circulate properly. Blocked lymph nodes contribute to immune system issues and vice versa.\\n\\nLymphatic yoga, and, in this case yin yoga, is perfect for restoring balance to your immune system and assists with lymphatic drainage.\\n\\nLet’s look at 10 yin yoga poses you can use to restore lymph node health! \\n\\nIf you’re already familiar with yin yoga and how it helps with immunity and lymphatic drainage, check out my \\nYin Yoga class on myYogaTeacher\\n for a well balanced class that ends with a Nidra meditation!\\n[CTA-LYMPHATIC]\\n1. Downward Facing Dog\\n\\nAny time your head is below your heart, lymph flows from the highest point in your body to the lowest due to gravity. When you come upright again, lymph passes through the lymph nodes and is cleansed.\\n\\nDownward facing dog allows this process to happen naturally. Resting your forehead on a block and relaxing your jaw, tongue and mouth, also allows the lymph to flow freely in your nose and throat area.\\nIf you are looking for yoga poses for post nasal drip, this one's definitely for you!\\n\\nHang out in this pose for 1-3 minutes and be sure to breathe deeply and evenly!\\n\\n\\n\\n\\n2. Legs Up A Wall\\n\\nSeems simple enough, right?\\n\\nPlace a rolled up blanket or towel underneath your hips and rest your legs a comfortable distance up against a wall. Be sure to keep your head and neck in a neutral position. If you can fit a small orange between your chin and neck, then you’re doing it right!\\n\\nYou’ll want to stay in this position for 3-5 minutes (or longer if you’re loving it) and take deep belly breaths. \\n\\nRelax and know that this pose is draining the lymph from your legs and feet and into your lymph nodes for cleansing!\\n\\n\\n\\n\\n3. Supine Reclined Twists\\n\\nWe’ve talked before about how twisting poses alleviate back and hip pain in previous posts. This lymphatic yoga pose is done slightly differently than static reclined twists. We’ve included it with \\nyin yoga\\n because it’s still important to perform this pose for 2-3 minutes.\\n\\nLying on your back, place your feet a little more than hip’s width apart. Knees facing the ceiling and feet flat on the floor. \\n\\nInhale, and as you exhale let your knees sway to the left or right like a windshield wiper. Inhale as your knees come up and exhale as you effortlessly let them fall to the other side. Go back and forth like this for 2-3 minutes.\\n\\nFeel free to gain some momentum with this pose as long as it is painless and remains effortless.\\n\\nTwisting poses stimulate the lymphatic system with gentle compression and help the connective tissue release lymph.\\n\\n\\n\\n\\n4. Cat and Cow Pose\\n\\nGotta love the cat and cow pose! \\n\\nThe gentle contraction of muscles in the abdomen and stretching of the hips and spine not only provides an amazing stretch for your back muscles, but helps release the lymph from those areas.\\n\\nThe gentle head movement also helps fluid release from your neck, upper chest, and armpit areas.\\n\\nPerform cat and cow pose for 2-3 minutes.\\n\\nRemember! For cat, you’re not necessarily arching your back. You’re releasing your hips upward. The arch in your back should be minimal, gentle, and should not hurt!\\n\\n\\n\\n\\n5. Seated Neck Stretches\\n\\nNeck stretches are perfect for clearing head congestion and allowing tight muscles to relax enough that they let go of the lymph so it can flow and be cleansed!\\n\\nSitting cross legged on a block or blanket, relax your shoulders down and gently tilt your ear towards your shoulder.\\n\\nNo need to strain here! Just let your head fall and keep your chin neutral, not lifted up or down. Hold each side for 30 seconds to a minute and repeat 3 times.\\n\\nYou can also do some gentle head rolls here. \\n\\n6. Standing forward bend\\n\\nGet a full spinal stretch with this pose, from your Achilles tendons all the way to your neck. Just as importantly, you’ll be allowing lymph to circulate throughout your upper body and be cleansed when you stand up. This is also a good yoga pose for post nasal drip!\\n\\nRest your head on one or two blocks to allow your jaw, neck, tongue and face to relax.\\n\\nYou’ll want to rest in this position for 2-3 minutes and roll up slowly and gently, inch by inch.\\n\\n\\n\\n\\n7. Low lunge with twist\\n\\nThere’s nothing like the sweet release that happens in your quads and hips when you do low lunge properly. It’s ahhhhhmazing! Adding a gentle twist with it creates contraction in the abdomen. \\n\\nTogether, the muscle release and compression of abdominal muscles allows lymph to release from the muscles and be pumped towards the lymph nodes.\\n\\nThere are several modifications for this pose. We have shown you one that is perfect for all body types and all skill levels.\\n\\nAnd definitely hold this pose on each side for 2-3 minutes. Feel free to put a blanket or pad under the knee area for more support!\\n\\n\\n\\n\\n8. Supported Bridge Pose\\n\\nThis one is particularly helpful if you’re feeling under the weather! \\n\\nSupported bridge pose opens up your chest for easier air movement, and using a block lengthwise under your torso allows you to relax and let gravity do all the work!\\n\\nIt also helps rejuvenate the parts of the lymphatic systems closest to your chest and helps clear up sinus drainage!\\n\\nYou’re welcome to do this pose, unsupported without the block. But either way you do it, hold this pose for 3-5 minutes for optimal effect!\\n\\n\\n\\n\\n9. Bow Pose\\n\\nSpeaking of poses for chest and airway health, bow pose is perfect if you’re having sinus issues or post nasal drip. Traditionally performed as an ab strengthening pose, bow pose also happens to help drain and bring to life the parts of the lymphatic system close to your chest.\\n\\nIt also stimulates your thymus gland, a gland in between the lungs that creates white blood cells, which are a huge part of the immune system!\\n\\nIf you’re unable to do bow pose, a modified version would be to use a strap to help you grab your feet or ankles. You can also skip grabbing your feet or ankles all together and simply reach backwards as if you were going to, but not. And then just lift your thighs up off the ground or mat.\\n\\nHold post for 10 seconds and repeat for 1 minute.\\n\\n\\n\\n\\n10. Child’s Pose\\n\\nChild’s pose is just the pose to round out any practice. That’s why we incorporate it into our \\nMyYogaTeacher classes\\n and our blog posts!\\n\\nThis pose stretches all the right places, releases all the right places, and the compression of your stomach promotes lymphatic circulation. Also, gentle rocking of your forehead on the floor during this pose will definitely help alleviate sinus drainage.\\n\\nPlus, it’s easy! No modifications needed, but if you want to rest a block under your forehead for comfort, you can!\\n\\n\\n\\n\\n\\nThere you go! These are 10 really good yoga poses for lymphatic drainage. Also, \\nyin yoga\\n is particularly good for cold and flu season (or pandemics). If you’re needing more yin yoga to boost your immune system and get your lymphatic system in check, click this link to check out my \\nYin Yoga Class on myYogaTeacher!\\n\\n\\nNot a member? That’s ok. \\nMyYogaTeacher offers a two week free trial when you sign up\\n!\\n\\nIn the meantime, drink plenty of water, get outside in nature, and when you’re ready, I’ll see you on the mat!\\n\\n[CTA-1]\\n","html":"<p>The immune system is a pretty cool thing. Until it isn’t.</p><p></p><p>Your immune system can start to act up just like a toddler in a candy shop. When it does, you’re left with symptoms like joint inflammation, allergies, cold hands and feet, depression, bloating, brain fog, and chronic fatigue.</p><p></p><p>As if that’s not enough, a clogged immune system also presents as weight gain.</p><p></p><p>And, in case you didn’t know, your lymphatic system and immune system are best friends. So when one isn’t acting right, the other probably isn’t either. </p><p></p><p>Your lymphatic system is responsible for circulating lymph – aka the leftover fluids from nutrient delivery – back into the body. It maintains the fluid level in your body, absorbs fat from the digestive tract, removes germs and bacteria, and protects your body from foreign invaders.</p><p></p><p>Unlike blood, which circulates by your heart pumping, lymph circulates by muscular contraction.</p><p></p><p>It’s vital that your lymph nodes (which filter the excess fluid) drain and circulate properly. Blocked lymph nodes contribute to immune system issues and vice versa.</p><p></p><p>Lymphatic yoga, and, in this case yin yoga, is perfect for restoring balance to your immune system and assists with lymphatic drainage.</p><p></p><p>Let’s look at 10 yin yoga poses you can use to restore lymph node health! </p><p></p><p>If you’re already familiar with yin yoga and how it helps with immunity and lymphatic drainage, check out my <a title=\"https://www.myyogateacher.com/group_classes/yin-yoga-by-annelise\" href=\"https://www.myyogateacher.com/group_classes/yin-yoga-by-annelise\">Yin Yoga class on myYogaTeacher</a> for a well balanced class that ends with a Nidra meditation!</p><p>[CTA-LYMPHATIC]</p><h2>1. Downward Facing Dog</h2><p></p><p>Any time your head is below your heart, lymph flows from the highest point in your body to the lowest due to gravity. When you come upright again, lymph passes through the lymph nodes and is cleansed.</p><p></p><p>Downward facing dog allows this process to happen naturally. Resting your forehead on a block and relaxing your jaw, tongue and mouth, also allows the lymph to flow freely in your nose and throat area.</p><p>If you are looking for yoga poses for post nasal drip, this one's definitely for you!</p><p></p><p>Hang out in this pose for 1-3 minutes and be sure to breathe deeply and evenly!</p><p></p><p></p><img src=\"https://media.graphcms.com/resize=width:5617,height:3744/XzvhYaRkSNe2pjWteORi\" alt=\"Downward Facing Dog\" title=\"pexels-elly-fairytale-3822118.jpg\" width=\"5617\" height=\"3744\" /><p></p><h2>2. Legs Up A Wall</h2><p></p><p>Seems simple enough, right?</p><p></p><p>Place a rolled up blanket or towel underneath your hips and rest your legs a comfortable distance up against a wall. Be sure to keep your head and neck in a neutral position. If you can fit a small orange between your chin and neck, then you’re doing it right!</p><p></p><p>You’ll want to stay in this position for 3-5 minutes (or longer if you’re loving it) and take deep belly breaths. </p><p></p><p>Relax and know that this pose is draining the lymph from your legs and feet and into your lymph nodes for cleansing!</p><p></p><p></p><img src=\"https://media.graphcms.com/resize=width:850,height:478/HOBOfA73RsatDpm3fSDW\" alt=\"Legs up on wall\" title=\"yoga_at_the_wall_5_poses_to_soothe_your_body_and_mind.png\" width=\"850\" height=\"478\" /><p></p><h2>3. Supine Reclined Twists</h2><p></p><p>We’ve talked before about how twisting poses alleviate back and hip pain in previous posts. This lymphatic yoga pose is done slightly differently than static reclined twists. We’ve included it with <a target='_blank' title=\"https://www.myyogateacher.com/yoga-online-classes/yin-yoga\" href=\"https://www.myyogateacher.com/yoga-online-classes/yin-yoga\">yin yoga</a> because it’s still important to perform this pose for 2-3 minutes.</p><p></p><p>Lying on your back, place your feet a little more than hip’s width apart. Knees facing the ceiling and feet flat on the floor. </p><p></p><p>Inhale, and as you exhale let your knees sway to the left or right like a windshield wiper. Inhale as your knees come up and exhale as you effortlessly let them fall to the other side. Go back and forth like this for 2-3 minutes.</p><p></p><p>Feel free to gain some momentum with this pose as long as it is painless and remains effortless.</p><p></p><p>Twisting poses stimulate the lymphatic system with gentle compression and help the connective tissue release lymph.</p><p></p><p></p><img src=\"https://media.graphcms.com/resize=width:900,height:600/gHc9UztiQySVrxl7zDyS\" alt=\"Supine Reclined Twist\" title=\"Windshield-wiper.jpg\" width=\"900\" height=\"600\" /><p></p><h2>4. Cat and Cow Pose</h2><p></p><p>Gotta love the cat and cow pose! </p><p></p><p>The gentle contraction of muscles in the abdomen and stretching of the hips and spine not only provides an amazing stretch for your back muscles, but helps release the lymph from those areas.</p><p></p><p>The gentle head movement also helps fluid release from your neck, upper chest, and armpit areas.</p><p></p><p>Perform cat and cow pose for 2-3 minutes.</p><p></p><p>Remember! For cat, you’re not necessarily arching your back. You’re releasing your hips upward. The arch in your back should be minimal, gentle, and should not hurt!</p><p></p><p></p><img src=\"https://media.graphcms.com/resize=width:550,height:550/OEsaBjGQwq3G6BC88e9g\" alt=\"Cat & Cow Pose\" title=\"1d0957d55d96b26a_Cat-Cow-Pose.jpg\" width=\"550\" height=\"550\" /><p></p><h2>5. Seated Neck Stretches</h2><p></p><p>Neck stretches are perfect for clearing head congestion and allowing tight muscles to relax enough that they let go of the lymph so it can flow and be cleansed!</p><p></p><p>Sitting cross legged on a block or blanket, relax your shoulders down and gently tilt your ear towards your shoulder.</p><p></p><p>No need to strain here! Just let your head fall and keep your chin neutral, not lifted up or down. Hold each side for 30 seconds to a minute and repeat 3 times.</p><p></p><p>You can also do some gentle head rolls here. </p><p></p><h2>6. Standing forward bend</h2><p></p><p>Get a full spinal stretch with this pose, from your Achilles tendons all the way to your neck. Just as importantly, you’ll be allowing lymph to circulate throughout your upper body and be cleansed when you stand up. This is also a good yoga pose for post nasal drip!</p><p></p><p>Rest your head on one or two blocks to allow your jaw, neck, tongue and face to relax.</p><p></p><p>You’ll want to rest in this position for 2-3 minutes and roll up slowly and gently, inch by inch.</p><p></p><p></p><img src=\"https://media.graphcms.com/resize=width:1024,height:576/UvjmdJ6SR3irVVK5zV00\" alt=\"Standing Forward Bend\" title=\"standing-forward-fold-share.jpg\" width=\"1024\" height=\"576\" /><p></p><h2>7. Low lunge with twist</h2><p></p><p>There’s nothing like the sweet release that happens in your quads and hips when you do low lunge properly. It’s ahhhhhmazing! Adding a gentle twist with it creates contraction in the abdomen. </p><p></p><p>Together, the muscle release and compression of abdominal muscles allows lymph to release from the muscles and be pumped towards the lymph nodes.</p><p></p><p>There are several modifications for this pose. We have shown you one that is perfect for all body types and all skill levels.</p><p></p><p>And definitely hold this pose on each side for 2-3 minutes. Feel free to put a blanket or pad under the knee area for more support!</p><p></p><p></p><img src=\"https://media.graphcms.com/resize=width:760,height:428/fxDIrcvlT2aOMitGMsZ0\" alt=\"Low Lunge Twist\" title=\"low-lunge-with-twist.jpg\" width=\"760\" height=\"428\" /><p></p><h2>8. Supported Bridge Pose</h2><p></p><p>This one is particularly helpful if you’re feeling under the weather! </p><p></p><p>Supported bridge pose opens up your chest for easier air movement, and using a block lengthwise under your torso allows you to relax and let gravity do all the work!</p><p></p><p>It also helps rejuvenate the parts of the lymphatic systems closest to your chest and helps clear up sinus drainage!</p><p></p><p>You’re welcome to do this pose, unsupported without the block. But either way you do it, hold this pose for 3-5 minutes for optimal effect!</p><p></p><p></p><img src=\"https://media.graphcms.com/resize=width:1024,height:564/EoXOkWcPRDuJwZYBbr1L\" alt=\"Supported Bridge Pose\" title=\"supported-bridge-pose-2.jpg\" width=\"1024\" height=\"564\" /><p></p><h2>9. Bow Pose</h2><p></p><p>Speaking of poses for chest and airway health, bow pose is perfect if you’re having sinus issues or post nasal drip. Traditionally performed as an ab strengthening pose, bow pose also happens to help drain and bring to life the parts of the lymphatic system close to your chest.</p><p></p><p>It also stimulates your thymus gland, a gland in between the lungs that creates white blood cells, which are a huge part of the immune system!</p><p></p><p>If you’re unable to do bow pose, a modified version would be to use a strap to help you grab your feet or ankles. You can also skip grabbing your feet or ankles all together and simply reach backwards as if you were going to, but not. And then just lift your thighs up off the ground or mat.</p><p></p><p>Hold post for 10 seconds and repeat for 1 minute.</p><p></p><p></p><p></p><img src=\"https://media.graphcms.com/resize=width:1100,height:826/IkeNcgStQTKmJq6aex33\" alt=\"Bow Pose\" title=\"a-woman-doing-the-bow-yoga-pose.jpg\" width=\"1100\" height=\"826\" /><h2>10. Child’s Pose</h2><p></p><p>Child’s pose is just the pose to round out any practice. That’s why we incorporate it into our <a title=\"https://www.myyogateacher.com/\" href=\"https://www.myyogateacher.com/\">MyYogaTeacher classes</a> and our blog posts!</p><p></p><p>This pose stretches all the right places, releases all the right places, and the compression of your stomach promotes lymphatic circulation. Also, gentle rocking of your forehead on the floor during this pose will definitely help alleviate sinus drainage.</p><p></p><p>Plus, it’s easy! No modifications needed, but if you want to rest a block under your forehead for comfort, you can!</p><p></p><p></p><img src=\"https://media.graphcms.com/resize=width:2500,height:1667/jyMT8QhTmOR3q4FEAW0O\" alt=\"Child's Pose\" title=\"ChildsPose-5c5d94ce46e0fb00017dd0d9.jpg\" width=\"2500\" height=\"1667\" /><p></p><p></p><p>There you go! These are 10 really good yoga poses for lymphatic drainage. Also, <a target='_blank' title=\"https://www.myyogateacher.com/yoga-online-classes/yin-yoga\" href=\"https://www.myyogateacher.com/yoga-online-classes/yin-yoga\">yin yoga</a> is particularly good for cold and flu season (or pandemics). If you’re needing more yin yoga to boost your immune system and get your lymphatic system in check, click this link to check out my <a title=\"https://www.myyogateacher.com/group_classes/yin-yoga-by-annelise\" href=\"https://www.myyogateacher.com/group_classes/yin-yoga-by-annelise\">Yin Yoga Class on myYogaTeacher!</a></p><p></p><p>Not a member? That’s ok. <a title=\"https://www.myyogateacher.com/\" href=\"https://www.myyogateacher.com/\">MyYogaTeacher offers a two week free trial when you sign up</a>!</p><p></p><p>In the meantime, drink plenty of water, get outside in nature, and when you’re ready, I’ll see you on the mat!</p><p></p><p>[CTA-1]</p><p></p>"},"category":["fitness","yoga_poses"],"utmCampaign":null,"utmMedium":null,"utmContent":null,"utmSource":null,"utmTerm":null,"utmSearchString":null,"imageHyperlink":[]},"recommendations_group_class":null}
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