6 yoga asanas for people with thyroid problems

The thyroid gland is a small butterfly-shaped gland located in the lower part of your throat. It is an incredibly important gland because it plays a key role on how your body functions; the primary function being is to regulate your metabolism and growth by the release of certain thyroid hormones. When there is an imbalance of the thyroid hormones in your body, virtually all the systems of your body get affected. Keeping the thyroid gland healthy is therefore very essential to your well being.

The effects of yoga are known to be long-lasting as they have their effects at the cellular level improving the overall health. Yogic techniques stimulate and massage the thyroid glands and balance the functioning of the entire endocrine system. Yoga postures involve stretching and compressing of the body. When coupled with correct breathing, they massage the endocrine and improve the blood flow to the vital organs.

Matsyasana or fish pose

Yoga’s gentle healing is suited to the needs of thyroid patients. It provides immediate rewards in the form of renewed energy, lowered stress and reduction of muscles and joint stiffness. Relaxation of the body induces calmness. This is significant as the imbalance of thyroid levels can cause mood swings and depression. Therefore, it is essential to healing the mind along with your body through postures such as matsyasana. You can also beat depression and stress with laughter yoga.

Steps to do the pose:

• Lie flat on the floor with your knees bent and your feet flat on the floor. Now straighten your legs, place your arms on either side.
• Now raise your hips, one side at a time and place your hands under each hip.
• Bend your elbows and push your upper body off the floor; remember to exhale as you do this. Only raise your chest, and tilt your head backwards.
• Hold this pose for five counts and inhale as you rest your back on the floor.

Eka pada rajakapotasan or pigeon pose

The levels of thyroid hormones released into the body are controlled by the pituitary gland and hypothalamus. The pigeon pose is a powerful posture to ward off illness and rejuvenate the thyroid glands.

Steps to do the pose:

• Start this pose by getting into the downward dog position.
• Now bring your right leg forward and place your shin on the floor such that your knee is facing your right hand and the flat of your foot is facing your left leg.
• Stretch your left foot backwards as you extend your hands forward.
• Stretch your hands out in front of you and lengthen your belly.
• Hold this position for ten breaths and then switch sides.

Setubandhasana or bridge pose

The bridge pose exerts a pressure on the neck which helps to stimulate the blood circulation to the thyroid gland so that it can function optimally and balance the hormones. Here are 10 quick facts about thyroid diseases you are not aware of.

How to do the pose:

• Lie on your back, with bent knees and feet flat on the floor. Keep your arms by your sides with palms facing the floor
• Now using your arms strength push your pelvis off the floor, towards the ceiling. Exhale as you do this.
• Keep your body lifted such that your neck and head are still flat on the floor and the rest of your body is in the air, similar to a bridge
• Hold this pose for five steady, consistent breaths.
• You can also put a block between your knees while performing the pose.

Halasana or plough pose

Calming and restorative yoga poses are recommended for people with an overactive thyroid. Halasana or the plough pose stimulates the abdominal and thyroid glands.It also calms the brain and reduces stress and fatigue.

Steps to do the pose:

• Lie flat on the floor on your back with your feet flat on the floor. Place your arms by your side and bend your knees so that your feet are flat on the floor.
• Now, slowly raise your legs from the hips. Place your hands on your hips as you raise it and use them as support.
• Slowly bend your legs at the hips and try to touch the floor behind your head with your toes and straighten your hands so they are flat on the floor.
• To return to the lying position gently roll your back  onto the floor, breath in while you come down.

Karnapidasana or knee to ear pose

A posture that stretches your spine such as karnapidasana can be challenging especially if your spine is not strong. In this asana, bend only to the extent that is comfortable.  It is, therefore, important that you practice this asana under the supervision of a qualified yoga teacher. You can try these yoga asanas for a stronger spine.

Steps to do the pose:

• From plough pose, bend your knees and bring them to the floor on either side of your head.
• Rest the tops of your feet on the floor. While you do this, allow the knees to apply light pressure to the ear.
• Hold this position for five breaths and release your arms.

Padmasana or lotus pose

The organs in our body are intricately related to each other. Problem in one organ can affect other relate organs. Padmasana also known as the lotus pose ensures organs function the way they are meant to. Practising such restorative postures help us relax, renew and heal the body.

Steps to do the pose:

• Sit on the floor or on a mat with your legs stretched out in front of you while keeping your spine erect.
• Now, bend your right knee and place it on the left thigh. Make sure that the sole of your feet point upward and your heel is close to your abdomen.
• Next, with both your legs crossed and feet placed on opposite thighs, place your hands on your knees in the mudra position (where your index finger and thumb are joined, with the other three fingers pointing straight out).
• Remember to keep your head straight and spine erect. Hold this posture and continue with gentle long breaths in and out.

Originally published on www.thehealthsite.com