HAY FEVER CAN BE DEALT WITH YOGA

Yoga poses to ward off allergies (Thinkstock photos/Getty Images)

The summer months are bound to bring with them aches, pains, itching, fatigue and sneezing because of all the heat and humidity in the air. Today we will understand two of the most basic allergy-preventing yoga asanas that help sooth your body's reaction to the heat. 

According to the American Academy of Asthma, Allergy and Immunology , allergic rhinitis, which is popularly known as hay fever, occurs when the inner walls of your nose get swollen because of something you have inhaled. It further leads to a release of a substance known as histamines. According to medical experts, histamines are responsible for your puffy eyes and runny nose and they can be dealt with yoga.

When you suffer from allergies, your immune system weakens making you agitated and stressed. An unwinding exercise like yoga will help in fighting your body's fight-or-flight response and warding off allergies. Make sure that you are performing these yoga exercises in a closed room to avoid outdoor irritants.

Warrior Pose I

Warrior Pose will allow your lungs and chests to open up and will drain that irritating mucus which is the main cause of your stuffiness.

Method

Stand straight, placing your feet firmly together and arms close to your body. Breathe in and place your feet hip-width apart. Now, raise your both your arms over your head and make sure your palms are facing each other. Breathe out by turning your left leg out 90 degrees to the right and your right leg in approximately around 55 degrees to the left. Exhale by twisting your torso and hip to face your left leg. Exhale and form a right angle with your shin and thigh by bending your left knee. Hold this position for 2 minutes and repeat on the right side. Watch video here.

Half Moon Pose

Half moon pose helps you in breathing normally by opening up your lungs and chest area.

Method

Stand straight, placing your feet firmly together and arms close to your body. Breathe in and place your feet hip-width apart. Breathe out by turning your left leg out by 90 degrees to the left. Breathe in and extend your arm out to your shoulder-height. Breathe out and reach your left arm as much as you can to your left. Now, hold your left hand down to the floor and form a Triangle Pose. Hold yourself in this position for 2 to 4 breaths.

Further, place your right hand firmly on your hip by bending your left knee a little, and skate your right foot so that it comes near to the left one. Breathe in by reaching your left foot fingertips on the floor as you lift your right leg. Meanwhile lift your right arm and set your eyes on it. Hold this position for 4 to 6 breaths.

To come out of this position, place your right arm to its original position. Focus on the floor by slightly bending your left knee and lowering your right leg. Flatten your left knee, coming back to the Triangle pose. Change the sides and repeat! Watch video here.