For many of us Gold Coasters, spring marks the end of the dreaded winter season and the beginning of fun in the sun. Outdoors, sunshine, magnificent scented flowers, beaches, picnics – these all go hand in hand with spring. But then so does hay fever, allergies, sniffles and sneezing. Find some relief this spring through the ancient principles of Yoga and Ayurveda.1. Spring back with yoga
According to the science of Ayurveda, allergies are aggravated by a build up of toxins in your body. By gently stretching, twisting and massaging, yoga poses help to successfully remove built up toxins and wastes from your internal organs. After a yoga session you are less likely to crave the heavy, oily foods that dampen your immune response. Instead you will crave the wholesome and nourishing foods that revitalise the body.
Spring Yoga Pose – The Fish Pose
2. Try Neti How’s that wonderful feeling in your sinuses when you dive under the waves! You can get that feeling every time you do neti – fresh and clear.
Neti is a nasal wash with warm, salty water. Its main benefit is in the prevention of respiratory disorders like colds, flu, sinusitis and allergies. However, it is also said to be helpful in treating various disorders – like glue ear, myopia, inflamed adenoids, nervous tics, muscular tension in the face, migraines, and even epilepsy.
3. Treat yourself to some rest and fun
Stress dampens our immune response, making our bodies more vulnerable to the allergies and hay fever of spring. Get plenty of rest, relaxation and meditation to protect the health of your immune system. Twenty minutes of Yoga Nidra is more rejuvenating than four hours of sleep. Or is can be as simple as slowing down. Give yourself the time to enjoy doing the activities that you like. With the sun out in the bright blue sky it is the perfect time of the year for a picnic, bushwalk, surf or hit of tennis. Balance the stress and responsibility of your everyday life with fun times spent with family and friends.
4. Spice up this spring
According to Ayurveda, spices are useful to counterbalance the side effects of spring. Ginger is famous for its warming qualities which improve digestion and burn up toxins. In a previous post I shared a great chai tea recipe that necessitates (for me anyway) a generous serving of ginger. Even herbal tea or hot water with a squeeze of lemon or lime will warm and nourish your body.
Other spices such as cumin, turmeric, coriander and fennel help promote and maintain heat in the body. You can experiment using these spices in your cooking, many of which a tasty Indian dish would call for. Turmeric is known to reduce inflammation associated with allergies. Taken as a supplement or in your food it can help to ease away the discomforts of the spring season.
Amara
Instructor
Australian School of Meditation and Yoga
