Yoga for stress relief

(July 25, 2008)

What are the asanas or pranayamas I should practice to reduce tension and cholestrol? I have migrain also. Please guide.

Yoga practice enriches the blood and the flow of oxygen in the body which in turn aids in the discharge of toxins and waste matter. For yoga to truly help in lowering undesirable and unhealthy cholesterol, it must be performed on a daily basis. There are three basic principles in the practice of yoga that works all around for the benefit of the individual. In addition to lowering bad cholesterol, yoga is also known to treat migraines and help in the reduction of mental stress and tension. Regular practice of Kapalbhati Pranayama is the best form of Pranayama for bringing down cholesterol. Kapalbhati Pranayama aids in increasing the level of oxygen in the blood and improves the efficiency of the oxygen in the body.

Through the mode of Kapalbhati Pranayama carbon dioxide is expelled from the body and a fresh burst of oxygen also helps to bring down the incidence of migraine headaches. In addition, due to the buildup of oxygen in the body, the waste matter gets quickly eliminated thus bringing down the unpleasant chemical reactions on cholesterol molecules. A good Yoga workout improves the endurance and pliability of the body. Specific yogasanas such as the ardhamatsyaendrasana, the shalabhansan, the padmasana and the vajrasana are extremely beneficial in bringing down the occurrence of bad cholesterol in the blood. These yogasanas help to stimulate the internal glands and organs of the body for the betterment of blood circulation, and regulation of hormonal functions. Cholesterol in the blood as well as migraines are reduced and brought under control with the daily practice of these yogasanas. The stretches and body movements in the practice and performance of yogasanas help in the circulation of blood to the heart while reducing the risk of bad cholesterol in the arteries. A significant reduction of cholesterol in the arteries greatly brings down the risk of coronary heart disease. One important yogasana, known as the half Moon stretch, helps in calming the nervous system and regulating the digestive system for more efficient processing of food. More importantly, half Moon stretch is also beneficial for headaches as well as controlling mental stress.

In addition to Pranayama, meditative techniques must also be practiced to promote physical and emotional relaxation. Most chronic ailments such as hypertension, pain and anxiety, migraines, cholesterol disorders etc. are actively dealt with the practice of the half Moon stretch. Exercise and diet go hand-in-hand in the effective control of cholesterol. Bad eating habits must be modified to incorporate more fiber and leafy green vegetables. All kinds of fatty foods and foods high in saturated fats must be avoided. It is important to stick to a proper diet chart to manage cholesterol for life.

Submitted by C D on July 25, 2008 at 05:36