When the cold weather settles in, our immune system tends to weaken, and colds become common occurrences.

Common cold symptoms such as stuffy nose, congestion, sore throat, and body aches can be very uncomfortable and can make it difficult to function properly. While there is no cure for the common cold, exercise can be a natural way to ease cold symptoms and speed up recovery.

In this article, we will present several simple exercises that can help you get relief from the discomfort of cold symptoms and help you feel better faster.

1. Deep Breathing

Deep breathing exercises help soothe a sore throat, improve nasal congestion, and unclog your sinuses. To perform deep breathing, take long and deep breaths in through your nose and out through your mouth.

You can also add aromatherapy essential oils such as eucalyptus or peppermint to help clear your airways.

2. Stretching

Stretching can help ease your body stiffness and reduce body aches, which are common symptoms of the cold.

To perform stretching, focus on moves such as neck rolls, shoulder shrugs, and hamstring stretches, all of which help release tension in the body and promote relaxation.

3. Yoga

Yoga can help reduce inflammation and stimulate the immune system. Poses such as child’s pose, downward-facing dog, and supported bridge pose, help relieve stress, open up nasal passages, and boost your immunity.

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4. Walking

Walking is a simple and easy way to get some exercise. Walking increases blood circulation and releases endorphins that help improve mood, reduce inflammation and stimulate the immune system.

You can walk indoors or outdoors depending on the weather and your preference.

5. Resistance Training

Resistance exercises such as pushups, squats, and lunges, help build muscle and strengthen the body. Resistance training increases the body’s circulation, which can help reduce the severity and frequency of cold and flu symptoms.

6. Swimming

Swimming is an excellent exercise for the cold season, as it warms up the body and helps relieve nasal congestion.

The warm and humid environment of swimming pools helps clear the lungs and nasal passages, which are common areas where cold and flu viruses take hold.

Conclusion

Exercising is an excellent way to help alleviate cold symptoms and speed up recovery.

These six simple exercises, deep breathing, stretching, yoga, walking, resistance training, and swimming, are easy ways to help boost your immune system, release tension, and reduce inflammation. However, if you have a high fever or other more severe symptoms, you should consult with your healthcare provider before attempting to exercise.