yoga tidbits for diabetes
7 people out of 10 are diabetic in any given population now-a-days, all owing to the health-insensitive lifestyle led by the majority of us. When it comes to diabetes numerous facts and figures have been thrown about, some of which are true, others not so much. However, it is important to follow some yoga exercises regularly to keep the energy flowing in the channels of the body.
Diabetes is now deemed as a lifestyle disorder. Studies have also confirmed that practising certain asanas such as Ardha Matsyendrasana (half-twist pose) combined with Dhanurasana (bow pose), Vakrasana (twisted pose), Matsyendrasana (half-spinal twist), Halasana (plough pose) squeezes and compresses the abdomen and helps stimulate the pancreatic secretions or hormonal secretions. As a result, more insulin is pushed into the system. This rejuvenates the insulin producing beta cells in the pancreas of diabetics suffering from both type 1 and 2. Practising the postures in a relaxed manner, without exertion, meditation and breathing techniques help most patients control the triggers or causes of diabetes.
Few yoga poses that can keep diabetes at bay are:
1. Vajrasana – diamond pose
All you need to do is sit on a yoga mat with your kneels facing upwards. Let your buttocks rest on your heels. Keep your spine erect. Breathe deeply and slowly for five counts. This asana can also be done after eating. This is very effective in activating pancreas and controlling digestion.
2. Padmasana – lotus pose
Sitting on the floor is also an art, when done correctly, can give you health benefits. Padmasana simply involves sitting on the floor. Sit down, keep your right heel on the left thigh and the the left heel on the right and that’s it. Keep your spine erect and breathe deeply for 5 times.
3. Trikonasana – triangle pose
This asana can help increase blood flow in the pancreas and regulate blood sugar levels. Stand with your feet well apart. Stretch your arms and bend to left side first to reach the floor. Turn your head to look at the upper end of the other arm. Repeat the same on the other side.
4. Cat-pose
Stand on all fours. Bend your spine like a hunch when you breathe out and expand your stomach well when you breathe in. Simple and say good bye to diabetes. Repeat this 10 times for one cycle.
5. Bow Pose Or Dhanurasana
The Bow pose strengthens regulates the pancreas and is highly recommended for people with diabetes. This yoga pose also strengthens the abdominal muscles and is a good stress and fatigue buster.
6. Paschimottanasana (Head to knee pose)
Stand on all fours. Bend your spine like a hunch when you breathe out and expand your stomach well when you breathe in. Simple and say good bye to diabetes. Repeat this 10 times for one cycle.
The Two-legged forward bend massages and tones the abdominal and pelvic organs, and helps people suffering from diabetes. This yoga posture helps balance the prana in the body and also calms the mind.
7. Suptmatsyendra asana
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The Lying-down body twist massages the internal organs and improves digestion. This posture also exerts pressure on the abdominal organs and is hence very helpful yoga posture for people suffering from diabetes.