Although we are all exposed to fall cold or flu, yogis and yoginis are less prone. This is so because yoga helps regulate and stimulate the immune system, keeping it healthy and strong, making it resistant to infection. Stress is known to be a major contributing factor to getting a cold or flu, as stress hormones cause the size of the Thymus gland, causing it to malfunction as a producer of immune system cells and therefore weakening the system. Chest opening poses will activate the main organ of the immune system, the thymus gland, located in the center of the chest. The most beneficial postures for this purpose are arc, the bridge y the cobra. In addition to the general calming effects of most yoga poses, forward bending poses help calm the nervous system, thereby reducing stress throughout the body. The following postures are known to be especially calming for the body and mind: the baby, savasana etc. Inversions increase the passive circulation of the lymphatic system, which is responsible for the production and circulation of immune cells to defend the body against viruses and bacteria. Inversions, over the shoulders, over the head, the plow, etc. All of these poses will help improve the flow of lymph and immune cells throughout the body. Keep in mind that some of these poses should be practiced under the supervision of a qualified teacher, since execution must be done correctly to avoid any type of injury. Use this wonderful tool that is yoga and enjoy this fall with lots of health and energy! Namaste, Nina