Yoga and Exercise for Influenza

When you have a fever or flu, rest is the priority. Yoga and exercise are for recovery and prevention, not for the acute illness.

During flu

• Rest. Skip workouts and yoga while you have a fever, body aches or shortness of breath.
• Do very gentle breathing, such as slow belly breathing, only if it feels comfortable.
• Do not do forceful breathing exercises such as kapalabhati or bhastrika, and do not steam children.

The "neck check"

A common guide is that if symptoms are only above the neck, such as a mild runny nose, light activity may be fine. If you have fever, chest symptoms or body ache, rest fully.

Returning to activity

• Wait until the fever has gone for at least 24 hours without medicine.
• Start with short walks, stretching and gentle yoga, such as easy seated poses.
• Build up over several days to a week or more. Stop if you feel breathless, dizzy or have chest pain.
• Fatigue can last for weeks, so go slowly.

Helpful practices once recovered

• Slow breathing and alternate nostril breathing to calm the body
• Gentle stretches and walking
• Regular moderate exercise, which supports general health

Be careful if

• You have asthma, heart or lung disease, or are pregnant. Ask your doctor before returning to exercise.

Key point

Rest first, then return gradually, and see a doctor if breathing symptoms persist.

Before your appointment

Note when symptoms began, your highest temperature, and any cough, breathing trouble or vomiting. List your medicines, long-term conditions, pregnancy, allergies and recent vaccines, including this year's flu vaccine. Mention contact with anyone who is ill. Ask about testing, antivirals, when to return to work or school and the warning signs that mean you should call 112 or 102.