Regular Bikram practitioners at our Darlinghurst studio often tell us they get sick less frequently than they used to. Katie's version, written in one of our newsletters back in 2018, still holds: "Without a doubt, if I (Katie) take more than 4 days off at this time of year, it is almost a guarantee that I will get sick."
This isn't coincidence. Multiple mechanisms in yoga practice support immune function: stress hormone regulation, lymphatic system stimulation, improved sleep, and overall health improvements. While yoga isn't a magic shield against illness, consistent practice appears to strengthen your body's natural defences. "Improve circulation" is a reason students gave us, in those words, for practising — and circulation is exactly where the immune story starts. This article explores the science connecting yoga to immune health and practical strategies for using your practice to stay healthier year-round, based on research and two decades of observation.
Practising through a Sydney winter
It is highly recommended that you guys keep up your practice to keep your core temperature balanced which in turn will make it less likely for you to pick up what is going around.
Consistency matters - occasional practice isn't enough.
The stress–immunity connection
Stress reduction through yoga supports healthy immune function. Community connection provides mental health benefits that affect immunity.
Circulation and the lymphatic system
Movement and compression stimulate lymphatic drainage.
Sleep, the quiet immune booster
Improved sleep from yoga supports immune health.
What the research does and doesn't say
Regular exercise is associated with fewer respiratory infections. Heat exposure may trigger protective heat shock proteins. Yoga supports but doesn't replace other immune-healthy habits.
Strengthen your practice at 185 Oxford Street, Darlinghurst. Book online or call 0449 228 740.