4 Best Exercises To Do When You Have A Cold

When you’re down with a cold, exercising is probably the last thing on your mind. However, in some cases, doing moderate physical activity may actually help you feel better. There is a simple way to know if exercising is going to make you feel better.

If your symptoms are above the neck and involve sneezing, sinus pressure, stuffy nose, then exercising is generally considered safe. Here are the best and worst exercises to do if you have a cold. However, if at any point you feel too tired, dizzy, or nauseous, stop exercising and make sure to get ample rest.

# Walking

Suffering from a cold can bring down your energy levels which is why a walk may be the perfect exercise in this condition. Just a 20-minute walk can help you reap the benefits of regular exercise.If your sinuses are blocked, walking will stimulate you to take deep breaths and can help open up the nasal passages.

# Jogging

Don’t start jogging if you have a cold but if you’ve been jogging regularly, don’t let the cold come in the way. If you’re a regular runner, running can help you feel better when you’re sick because runningis a natural decongestant, and it can help clear your head and feel normal again. But make sure you don’t push yourself too hardsince your body is already working in overdrive to help fight off infection.

# Qi Gong

Qi gong is moving meditation and is perfect if you’re not in the mood to break some serious sweat because of your cold. It can reduce stress and anxiety, improve blood flow, and increase energy. Qi gong practitioners also have better immunity. According to aUniversity of Virginia study, varsity swimmers who did qi gong at least once a week came down with 70 percent fewer respiratory infections that their teammates who practiced it less often.

# Yoga

When your body is fighting infections, it releases the stress hormone cortisol. Stress-relieving techniques such as yoga and breathing exercises may help boost immunity. Also,gentle stretching may help relieve aches and pains related to colds and sinus infections. When you’re sick, go for slower styles of yoga like Hatha.