5 ways Pilates boosts your immune system
The immune system has received a great deal of media attention in recent years. COVID has certainly played a major role in raising awareness of what we can do as individuals and within our families to strengthen our immune systems. After all, a healthy immune system helps us avoid illness or fight it more effectively when we inevitably fall ill.
But COVID isn’t the only reason why we should do all we can to keep our immune system at peak performance. We’re entering cold and flu season, the kids are back at school and will be bringing home viruses that will spread to unsuspecting family members, and as the world returns to a new normal, we’re more exposed and vulnerable because of our presence. more people after so long of being fairly isolated inside our homes.
Nor is illness the only reason we want a strong immune system. When our
healthy immune system
We reap many rewards that have a positive impact on our lives.
Benefits of a strong immune system
fewer infections from pathogens such as bacteria and viruses
ability to bounce back more quickly from illness
less fatigue
faster wound healing
helps maintain ideal body weight
lowers blood pressure
reduced risk of disease, particularly cardiovascular disease
One way to strengthen your immune system and enjoy these many benefits and more is to practice Pilates regularly.
5 ways Pilates boosts your immune system
If you’re a member of our community, you already know that Pilates makes you feel so good. But as it turns out, it also has a positive impact on your immune system! Here’s how.
- Lymphatic drainage
Every cell in our body produces waste, and this waste is transported by lymphatic fluid to the lymph nodes, where it is expelled from the body. Lymphatic fluid moves through the body via breathing, the movement of intestinal fluid and muscle movement. Pilates is particularly well suited to moving this fluid, as the practice activates a multitude of muscle groups and joints. And it’s good for emptying the lymph nodes, as there are lots of them in our joints.
2. Reduced stress = Reduced inflammation = Improved immune system
Regular practice of movements such as Pilates reduces stress. The impact of exercise on stress is well documented, studied and understood. The impact is particularly dramatic when the mind-body connection is a component of the practice, as it is in Pilates. When we reduce stress, we reduce inflammation in our bodies. This directly improves the functioning of our immune system. What’s more, reducing inflammation reduces our risk of disease.
3. Stimulates the intestine, where 80% of the immune system resides
Our “gut” is made up of the intestines and the pathways leading to and from them, from our mouths to our bottoms. It’s the digestive system, and we all know that it plays an important role in how we feel and how healthy we are. This is partly due to the fact that
80% of our immune system resides
in the biome that is our digestive tract.
And what surrounds this digestive tract? The muscles that make up our core. Pilates calls on our core (NOT just our abs… the whole core!) to be involved in every posture. In turn, this provides blood flow and stimulation to the very place where the massive majority of our immune system lives. What’s good for the gut is good for the immune system!
4. Nasal breathing boosts immunity and fights infection
When practicing Pilates, deep, intentional breathing is as important as any physical posture. Research has shown that nasal breathing boosts immunity and also helps fight infection. The nose itself acts as a kind of filter. It prevents certain pathogens from completely penetrating the body by warming and humidifying the air you inhale. In addition, deep nasal breathing delivers an increased load of optimally oxygenated air to the whole body.
5. High-quality sleep is essential for a healthy immune system
Regular practice of movements such as Pilates leads to better quality sleep. According to the Sleep Foundationsleep provides essential support for the immune system. Get enough hours
High-quality sleep enables a well-balanced immune defense, characterized by strong innate and adaptive immunity, an effective response to vaccines and less severe allergic reactions.
Regular, consistent movement, especially when led by a qualified instructor, is a proven way to improve the well-being of your immune system so you can get sick less often and recover quickly when you do.
