Yoga for Hypothyroidism

The body’s metabolism is regulated by the endocrine system, particularly the thyroid gland. Yoga for hypothyroidism is considered to be effective as it has a positive effect on the organs of the endocrine system, especially by stimulating the parathyroid and thyroid glands. The twisting, stretching, and compressing caused by the yoga poses for hypothyroidism help in providing the endocrine organs with a massage and also improve their functioning. Yoga for hypothyroidism also provides nourishment to the cells and improves the blood circulation.

Sarvangasana (Shoulder Stand) is considered to be one of the most effective yoga poses for hypothyroidism. The Shoulder Stand Pose is one of the inverted poses that reverse the effects of gravity by allowing the flow of blood from the feet and legs to the neck where the thyroid gland is located. This will help stimulate and nourish the thyroid gland, which will bring about weight loss and increase the metabolic rate of the body. Other effective yoga poses for hypothyroidism are Matsyasana (Fish Pose) and Setu Bandha Sarvangasana (Bridge Pose).

Practicing pranayama for hypothyroidism is also very beneficial in maintaining a balanced metabolism. The benefits of performing pranayama have been found to reverse the two main causes of hypothyroidism. The first is the result of previous or present inflammation of the thyroid that causes a lot of thyroid cells to get damaged or destroyed. This will cause them to be unable to produce sufficient amounts of triiodothyronine and thyroxine. Another common cause of the malfunctioning of the thyroid gland is known as autoimmune thyroiditis or Hashimoto’s thyroiditis. This happens when the thyroid becomes inflamed due to the immune system of the patient. The second cause is due to the effects of different medications. Performing pranayama for hypothyroidism can help reverse the process significantly, even when the condition is quite severe. Some of the effective pranayamas for hypothyroidism are Kapalbhati (Cleansing), Anulom Vilom (Alternate Nostril Breathing), and Ujjayi (Ocean Breath).

Practicing Bikram yoga for hypothyroidism helps in bringing relief to the symptoms like weight gain, muscle spasms, constipation, chest pain, headaches, depression, and fatigue. As Bikram yoga is performed in a room that is kept at 104 degrees Fahrenheit, the muscles will become more supple and flexible allowing them to stretch more easily. Along with the yoga asanas, the hypothyroid condition can be treated with medications to replace the deficiency of thyroxine (T4) from the body. It is also essential that you combine the practice of yoga poses with a diet that includes vegetables, fruits, whole grains and sea food to enhance the benefits. In addition to practicing yoga for hypothyroidism however it is necessary to follow up with your doctor and follow any medical recommendations.

Hypothyroidism, or underactive thyroid, happens when the thyroid gland fails to produce or secrete as much thyroxine (T4) as the body requires. Since T4 regulates such vital functions such as heart rate, digestion, physical growth, and mental development, an insufficient supply of this hormone can slow life-sustaining processes. It can also damage organs and tissues in every part of the body, and lead to life-threatening complications.

Hypothyroidism happens to be one of the most common chronic diseases in the United States. The symptoms may not appear until years after the thyroid has stopped functioning. Further, they are often mistaken for signs of other ailments, menopause, or aging. Even though this condition is believed to affect upto 11 million adults and children, as many as two of every three people with hypothyroidism may not know they have the disease.

Yoga for hypothyroidism

The compressing, stretching and twisting of the Yogasanas is believed to help to massage the endocrine organs. This regulates their function, improving blood flow and nourishing them at the cellular level. The Shoulder Stand is the most effective yoga posture for an underactive thyroid, the Indian name for which is Sarvangasana, meaning "all the body."

The Shoulder Stand reverses the normal effects of gravity and lets blood to flow from the legs and feet into the neck, where the thyroid gland is located. Yogis believe that, by sending oxygenated blood to the neck region, the thyroid is nourished and stimulated. This, in turn assists in weight loss, improves circulation and increases one's metabolism.

Another excellent asanas for hypothyroidism are Viparita Karani, Janu Sirshasana, Paschimottanasana and Pavanamuktasana. However, when doing these, remember to stick the chin into the hollow of the throat.

Breathing exercises (Pranayamas) for hypothyroidism

• Kapalabhatti
• Anuloma-Viloma
• Ujjayi

All of these should be done with Jalandhara Bandha.