World Yoga Day – A Healthy Breath Starts with a Healthy Nose By Dr. Tushar Gori – ENT Specialist (Otorhinolaryngologist) June 21st – Celebrating International Yoga Day On this World Yoga Day, we celebrate the ancient Indian practice of yoga that not only brings mental peace and physical well-being but also plays a vital role in improving respiratory and ENT (ear, nose, and throat) health. As an ENT specialist, I have seen how simple breathing exercises like pranayama and yoga-based breathing techniques can support nasal health, sinus relief, and overall respiratory function. ⸻ Yoga & ENT Health – What’s the Connection? Many yoga techniques promote deep nasal breathing, which helps: • Improve nasal airflow • Clear sinus congestion • Reduce snoring and mouth breathing • Boost immunity against common ENT infections • Manage conditions like allergic rhinitis, sinusitis, and even tinnitus ⸻ Benefits of Yoga for ENT Conditions • Pranayama (Controlled Breathing): Helps open nasal passages, reduce nasal congestion, and increase oxygen intake. • Jal Neti (Nasal Irrigation): A traditional yoga technique that flushes out allergens and mucus, useful for sinusitis and allergies. • Meditation & Stress Management: Reduces the impact of stress on ENT-related issues like tinnitus, migraine-associated vertigo, and throat discomfort. ⸻ ENT Tips on this Yoga Day 1. Practice nasal breathing instead of mouth breathing – it filters and humidifies the air. 2. Begin your day with Anulom Vilom or Bhramari Pranayama for better respiratory balance. 3. Avoid yoga poses that put pressure on the head or sinuses during active infections. 4. Consult your ENT doctor if you have chronic nasal blockage before starting intense yoga routines. ⸻ Yoga for All Ages Whether you’re a child suffering from frequent cold and cough, an adult with sinus issues, or an elderly person dealing with snoring or hearing problems, gentle yoga and breathing exercises can complement your ENT treatment plan effectively. ⸻ Final Thought This International Yoga Day, let’s embrace yoga not just as a form of exercise but as a natural tool to support ear, nose, and throat health. Combining modern ENT care with traditional practices like yoga ensures long-term well-being. Breathe better, live better. Happy World Yoga Day!