Yoga Exercises For Hypo-Thyroid Problem

The metabolism of our body is regulated by the endocrine system, particularly the thyroid. Regularly practicing Yoga is believed to be extremely beneficial for the endocrine system because the each asana helps in stimulating the endocrine organs, particularly the thyroid and parathyroid glands. When performing the various Yoga postures, the body is compressed, stretched and twisted at different angles; this helps in massaging the glands related to the endocrine system, increasing blood flow to them, and regulating their function.

Under hypothyroidism, as the name suggests, the bloodstream lacks the necessary thyroid hormone. In this condition, the thyroid gland is regarded as being “underactive” as it does not produce the required amount of the thyroid hormone that is needed for the proper functioning of the body.

Sarvangasana Or The Shoulder Stand Pose: The Sarvangasana, or shoulder stand pose, is said to be the most effective asana for treatment of an underactive thyroid gland. In this pose, the body is inverted, and as a result, the blood flow is reversed, allowing the blood to flow to the neck, where the thyroid gland is located. This increased blood flow to the neck region is believed to stimulate and nourish the thyroid gland by providing it with the mush needed oxygenated blood. Below is a step-by-step guide to performing the Sarvangasana, or the shoulder stand pose.

Step One: Lie on you back on a Yoga mat. Place your hands on your side, palms facing downward.

Step Two: By supporting yourself with your hands as you push toward the ground, lift your legs to the point where they are perpendicular to the ground.

Step Three: Move your legs further up, taking them over your head. This will automatically lift your pelvis off the floor.

Step Four: Use your hands to support your back by bending them at your elbows and placing your palms on your back.

Step Five: Raise your legs upward and support yourself by moving your hands along your back and towards your shoulders.

Step Six: When your legs and your torso are perpendicular to the floor, hold your back steady. You can use your hands to keep yourself in position. Keep your toes pointing to the ceiling and focus on your breathing. It is important to breathe evenly and normally throughout the asana.

Step Seven: In order to return to starting position safely, bring your legs down and over your head. Bring your hands back to your sides. Slowly move your spine back down to the floor.

Precautions: It is advisable not to practice this pose if your are menstruating, suffering from high blood pressure, have any eye or neck problems, have an ear infection, or are pregnant. Further, it is advised that your consult a doctor before beginning any Yoga routine.