Ayurveda, simply, is a holistic health modality, based on the traditional medicine system in India, that uses an integrated approach to prevent & treat the body, mind & spirit. The focus of this blog is on preventative health.
In class yesterday, (I’m currently a student at The Shakti School, thank you to my teachers Katie Silcox & Mary Thompson for sharing this information) we learned some great tips to support the Respiratory System. Enjoy!
In Ayurvedic theory, the nose is the considered the opening to the whole system, so all of these measures involve entry through the nose but benefit the entire system.
Breathing in steam - very simple but is a great way to keep your airways moist (as they should be). In Ayurvedic theory, if these passages become too dry, this leads to increased mucus production, so breathing in steam is a great way to keep your channels happy!
Essential Oils - Do you have a diffuser? No worries if you don’t, you can benefit from simply sniffing the following essential oils (These are just a few of the many options, ask an aromatherapist for a more complete list, I just included some of the basics here)
Eucalyptus
Tea Tree
Peppermint
Pine
Lemon
Add herbs to your tea - you can add herbs such as Basil, Cinnamon, Turmeric or Oregano and simply inhale the steam and afterwards you can enjoy a tasty drink. Hydration is also key, so in a sense two in one.
Take some deep breaths - This may seem like a simple one, but many of us when we are stressed or anxious are breathing very shallow without even realizing it. You can practice by putting one hand on your belly and feeling it expand on the inhale and contract on the exhale.
Additional Reflexology tips:
If you find it difficult to take deep breaths or just want to support your respiratory system further, you can work your diaphragm reflex on your hand (picture below) by pushing down with your thumb along the line pictured below. The area above the diaphragm line is the lung reflex points. You can work these areas to even further support your Respiratory System. You don't need to use heavy pressure at all, light stimulation is all that is necessary.
