Yoga does not just change the way we see things; it transforms the person who sees – B K S Iyengar
It is often said that yoga is synonymous with addition; the addition of energy, strength and beauty to the mind, body and soul. With a multitude of benefits for both physical and mental health, there is no denying the fact that yoga plays a key role in keeping individuals fit in today’s age; an age where busy work schedules and hectic lifestyles are the order of the day. Apart from general health, the practice of yoga has proven beneficial for many health conditions with hypothyroidism being one of them. Given that it is a practice that integrates the body, mind and breath, yoga has been found to be effective in several endocrine disorder conditions. While it may not be a replacement for medication, it is definitely used as a complementary therapy to improve the function of several organs including the thyroid gland.
So, what exactly is hypothyroidism? It is a condition where the thyroid gland does not create and release the required amount of thyroid hormone into the blood stream. This results in slow metabolism, tiredness and weight gain. It is also referred to as an underactive thyroid. “The thyroid hormone is key for the overall metabolism of the body which in turn is a process where food is converted to energy. Practicing yoga regularly helps balance hormones. Yoga postures restore balance by bringing the body presence in the affected area. In case of hypothyroidism, the awareness that the asanas bring to the throat and head helps the thyroid gland attain balance” says Iyswarya Vignesh, Hathayoga teacher and trainer in pregnancy yoga and womb parenting.
Most of the yoga poses for the thyroid function are considered to provide a positive stimulus for the throat. These inversion postures improve energy flow and circulation around the neck and throat area creating a positive impact. They also help in the strengthening of the muscles and reduce the effect of hypothyroidism on the body. Further, they also help reduce stress levels which is an important factor for hypothyroidism. Here are some postures that go a long way to improve your thyroid function:
Sarvangasana: also called the shoulder stand pose, this one is known as the “queen or mother of all asanas”. Given that it has several benefits, it is often one of the first postures suggested to improve thyroid health. The position involves lying down flat on the mat with your legs close together and chin tucked in. As you inhale, lift your legs perpendicular to your torso and support your buttocks with your hands. Lift your torso gradually till you are completely resting on your shoulders. Keep your chin tucked in towards your chest, straighten your legs while keeping the knee firm.
Halasana: also called the plow pose, this exercise is also deemed to be extremely beneficial for hypothyroidism as it improves the circulation to the throat. This posture is also down by first lying down flat on the mat with your legs close together and chin tucked in. As you inhale, lift your legs straight up and bring them over your head. If possible, touch your toes to the ground. Be aware to breathe normally and not hold your breath in the position.
Sethu BandaSarvangasana: one of the most important poses for thyroid health, this posture is also called the bridge pose. It helps stretch the neck and improves blood circulation. Lie flat on your back with bent legs. The distance between your feet and legs should be as much as the width of the mat. Stretch your arms on either side and try to touch your feet. Lift your hips and if required support your buttocks with your hand. Take care to maintain the natural curvature of your neck and spine and let your chin be tucked in. Breathe normally and try to relax in the pose.
Matsyasana: also called the fish pose, this posture again has positive effects on thyroid health. Lie flat on the mat and let your elbows support your body. Lift your chest creating a back arch and rest the crown of your head on the floor. Keep your legs firmly together. Stretch the neck and breathe normally.
“Apart from these postures, exercises like Parvathasana or mountain pose improves body balance and Vajrasanais a panacea for boosting metabolism. Breathing exercises play an important role too with simhagarjanasana also known as lion roaring pose being beneficial for the throat and alleviating stress. Chanting “OM” energizes the pituitary gland while HAM chanting activates the throat chakra” adds Iyswarya Vignesh.
Always remember to practice yoga under the guidance of a qualified yoga practitioner. Consult your doctor before commencing the practice, be gentle on yourself and work on posture improvements steadily.
