Sick and yoga?

- Morning -

I was stiff yesterday so I was a bit careful with the yoga, but I still did it because I thought it would help me loosen up. When I woke up this morning it was even harder to move. The head heavy and hurting. The nose basically closed off despite the season. Tired even though I slept well.

Most definately dealing with a case of the common cold here. 

So, can you still yoga while you have a cold? 
Note that although I have an interest in yoga and health I am not an expert of any sort.
If you're really sick you should always consult a physician.

First off listen to your body. When you're sick it makes the rules. You need your body get where you want to be, do what you want to do and experience the world. When you're sick your body needs you. Appreciate it. Respect it. Take care of it.

If you feel you are able to yoga then you can, but very very gently. Start off in short sequences with simple asanas and gradually (within a few days...don't pressure yourself, it can take longer) get back into it. It's best to avoid any upside down poses like the plow and headstands... even savasana should in some cases be avoided. There are some standing up or sitting down asanas that are really good for the occasion. 

If you don't feel like you can practise yoga then just take care of yourself.

Honestly I don't dare to try the luck before work, in case I'd be feeling worse. I'm just going to drink ginger, get a bit of sunlight if I can find it and have large quantities of water. When you have a cold, don't forget to keep it cool, no stress.

This is an excellent time for reading, catching up on theoretical practise (if your head agrees) and for me it's also a time of learning to accept. I usually have a hard time accepting that I'm not invincible all the time. The only super hero I can be today is super chill. Don't push it and don't feel bad for having to take a step back.

Here's some more upon the subject:

Yoga Journals article "Tips for practicing yoga while sick"
Yoga with Adrienne's video "Yoga for when you are sick" (20 minutes, calm session)

Brett Larkin's video on "Yoga for sickness" (30 minutes, more movements)

Elephant journal's article"Should we practice yoga when we're sick?"

- Evening -

I managed yoga with Adrienne (and the downward dog without any discomfort)! Feeling slightly better, but we'll see about the mornings. Booked for 7:30am breakfast yoga and then 6:00pm global yoga class. Inbetween there will be math, master chef ingeniousness and feeling good.
Golden milk and Murakami. Sweet. Dreams.

Hydrotherapy and golden milk.

As often as I can, this is where I am.

Today I tried Ishnaan for the second time!

Ishnaan 

What? Hydrotherapy. Cold shower. I mean really cold. 

Why? For improved immune system, better circulation and of course getting more alert. Some sources say it's stress reducing and it just seems to make you better in so many ways.

How? Massage your body with the oil of your choice. I always go for coconut. Then get into the cold water for a few seconds. Massage. Get into the cold water again a few seconds. Repeat atleast four times or until you feel warm. Don't start off with warm water, just directly into the cold! Be brave! Note that this is easier to do Ishnaan if you're hot from laying on the beach a sunny day, going straight from the gym or worked up a sweat. After the shower it's nice to dive directly into the daily yogi practice. Well of course it might be a good idea to get dressed first...

Golden milk

What? A hot drink from turmeric and other spices mixed with milk. It doesn't have to be cow milk. I go for oatly. I imagine almond milk to taste fantastic with turmeric.

Why? Hard time sleeping or want to get more flexible. I have no idea if it works yet, but turmeric milk is besides a very cozy evening drink also nice for your joints and helps you rock into your sleep. I've done it once and it's nice. Will be the second time tonight and tomorrow is time to get more turmeric!

How? There's a quite good explanation at healthyholisticliving.com with benefits and recepie. I myself am using the one in YogaJona's book. You mix water and turmeric, cook it into a paste and then you just add your paste in warm (not too hot) milk. Cinnamon and cardamom go well with this! I also put ginger in everything. It's not only good, but also GOOD FOR YOU. 

Going through that pile of books. Sponging. Soaking up the knowledge. There's a lot of things I want to share, but for now I'm quite busy on the mat. Or on the beach. Or in the garden.