Yoga Positions

(July 25, 2008)

Hi, Please tell me if some exercises or positions are not good for someone who has hypothyroiditis. Thanks in advance! Mirjana

Hypothyroidism is a disorder that impacts metabolism and hence the entire body suffers. The hormone known as thyroxin that is secreted by the thyroid gland plays an important role in metabolism of the body. In case of hypothyroidism the thyroid gland becomes inactive and secretes less and less of the hormone which is not up to the body's demand and therefore, various complications occur. According to yoga theory, all types of yogasanas cause some part of the body to be exercised and massaged. Hence all asanas help the body and the glands to be stimulated in a positive manner. However the best known yogasana for an abnormally inactive thyroid is the shoulder stand also known as the Sarvangasana.

The shoulder stand is also referred to as the inverted pose and is highly instrumental in reversing the normal forces of gravity. By doing the shoulder stand or the Sarvangasana, the blood is allowed to flow from the limbs into the neck, in the location of the thyroid gland. According to yoga practitioners, the oxygenated blood that is sent to the neck region helps in nourishing and stimulating the thyroid gland which successively aids in the loss of weight, while enhancing blood circulation and increasing the metabolism. Other yogasanas often advocated by yoga instructors and ayurvedic professionals for the stimulation of the thyroid comprise the head lift, the wall hang pose, the fish position and the bridge position.

The thyroid is also benefited and stimulated with a combination of the Sarvangasana, the yoga mudras, the lion pose, and the jalandhara bandha. Once you have mastered the art of yogasanas you can also include the three types of yogasanas or bandhas that is a combination of jalandhara bandha and the Moolbandha along with the Uddiyanabandha. The Uddiyanabandha is also a good recommendation for the condition of hypothyroidism. It is important that these yogasanas be conducted early in the morning on an empty stomach, just after you have awakened from sleep. In addition to your primary medication of the thyroxin hormone supplements, you can effectively control and treat the condition of hypothyroidism with the help of regular exercise and modified diet. Daily exercise and Yogasanas are known to keep the thyroid gland well functioning in its normal state.

Also try to get exercise during the day such as brisk walking or aerobics that help in the improvement of blood circulation and stimulation of the thyroid production. Indulging in sport activities such as tennis, basketball and swimming are also advocated for the treatment of hypothyroidism.

Submitted by C D on July 25, 2008 at 05:25