Yoga for the Lymph System

The lymph system, short for the lymphatic system, assists the immune system in protecting your body from infection and disease. It also circulates lymph, a transparent fluid that helps remove toxins. Yoga, an ancient system of holistic health, involves the physical practice of stretches, also know as poses. Some of these poses may be helpful in improving and maintaining the health of the lymphatic system. Consult with your doctor before practicing yoga.

Uttanasana

Uttanasana, or standing forward bend, can be effective at improving your lymphatic system because it positions your head below your heart, which improves the flow of lymph. Start by standing with your feet hip-width distance apart. Bend your knees slightly and touch your fingers to the floor. Now lift your tailbone up toward the ceiling and hold the pose for up to 30 seconds. Rest and repeat twice.

Setubandha Sarvangasana

To perform Setubandha Sarvangasana, or supported bridge pose, you'll need two yoga bolsters. Place the bolsters on the floor in a vertical position, touching on one end. Lay your body on the bolsters face up with the top of your shoulders and the back of your head touching the floor. Stay in the pose for up to five minutes. Exit the pose by gently rolling to one side. Setubandha Sarvangasana is recommended by yoga master B.K.S. Iyengar to improve the lymphatic and immune systems.

Adhomukha Svanasana

Adhomukha Svanasana, or downward facing dog pose, helps improve the lymphatic system by positioning the head below the heart. Come to an all-fours position, on your hands and knees, and lift your knees off the floor until your body comes into a v-shape position. Keep the spine neutral and the weight evenly dispersed in the palms. Hold the pose for up to one minute.

Sirsasana

Sirsasana, or headstand, is a full body inversion and is considered an intermediate to advanced pose. Improper alignment in headstand can injure your cervical spine, so it is best to learn this pose from an experienced yoga instructor. Headstand can help improve the flow of lymph in your body.