Sinusitis, due to allergies or infection, causes pain and pressure in the sinus cavities, located behind the cheekbones and above the eyes. Mucus accumulates in the sinus passages, causing pressure to build. Irritated sinus membranes then swell, causing further blockage and constricted breathing. Practicing yoga relieves this pressure and inflammation of the sinus cavity. Consult a physician if you suspect a serious infection.
Ardha Chandrasana
Ardha Chandrasana, or half moon posture, helps to clear sinus passages, relieving sinus pressure. Stand with feet hip-width apart and bend forward at the hips, taking your hands to the mat. Lift your right leg straight behind you as you bend. To lessen the intensity of this posture, place your hands on yoga blocks instead of the floor. When balanced, keep the left hand on the floor and raise the right hand towards the sky. Rotate the chest and right hip towards the sky keeping the right leg extended and parallel to the floor. Push gently through both hands and both feet to aid in balance. Take your gaze toward your top hand.
Sarvangasana
Inversions such as Sarvangasana, translated as shoulder stand, help clear blocked sinus passages. Using blankets under the shoulders adds support. To begin, fold a yoga blanket into a rectangle and place it about 12 inches below the top of your mat. Lie on your back with the top of your shoulders on the blanket, and lined up with the top of the blanket. Your head should hang off of the blanket. Place arms next to your sides with your palms facing down and draw your knees towards your chest, lifting your hips off the mat. Keep lifting your pelvis over your torso and extend your feet toward the sky. Push through the balls of your feet and relax your neck while you press your upper arms and shoulders into the blanket. Remain in this position for 30 seconds. Gradually add 10 seconds each time you practice this posture until you can stay in this position for three minutes.
Ardha Halasana
Ardha Halasana, or supported half plow posture, helps clear sinus passages. Perform this posture before or after shoulder stand. A folded yoga blanket under the shoulders aides in support and relieves pressure in the neck. Place a folded yoga blanket 12 inches from the top of your mat. Lie on your back with the top of your shoulders at the top of your blanket. Let your head hang off the blanket. With arms at your sides and palms facing down, bring your knees towards your chest, lifting your hips off the mat. Send your feet over your head and towards the floor. The feet may or may not touch the floor, depending on your flexibility. Stay strong through the core and breathe deeply as you hold this posture for one minute or more.
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