Yoga Helps People With Diabetes

Yoga has been viewed as a helpful form of exercise that relaxes the mind and body. When it eases the body into postures, yoga is intended to improve the body's balance and strength, increase our flexibility and enhance our well-being. This ancient practice which originated in India also helps decrease stress which can be helpful in controlling glucose levels in people with type 1 or 2 diabetes.

While some races are pre-disposed to this disease, it is most often caused by a sedentary lifestyle made worse by poor diet. According to available studies, there is not enough evidence to show this exercise results to long-term improvements in people with diabetes. However, it did conclude that yoga led to short-term improvements in fasting glucose. It also helped normalize cholesterol levels. The studies explained that the exercise stimulates the organs as it improves the metabolic functions of an individual.

However, it is recommended that a certified instructor should be consulted first before launching into a routine since some poses may be harmful to diabetics.For example, poses that have the legs crossed can constrict the blood flow to the legs and feet. Therefore, training for those with this disease should always be personalized.

Here are some postures that will help normalize the body's digestion, absorption and elimination of wastes:

1. Western Intense - A study in the Yoga Journal revealed that this bearing traditionally reduces obesity. This also helps strengthen the pelvic floor muscles which the illness weakens in women and make them prone to urinary incontinence and have an overactive bladder. You have to hold your abdomen while doing this to make sure that your lower back does not cave in.

2. Corpse - You know how the dead are usually lying flat on their backs? This is how this bearing is done. This stance helps the body get rid of impurities through sweat and urine. When doing this, be sure to stay in this position until your heart rate has returned to normal. Your breathing must also be relaxed and comfortable.

3. Downward Facing Dog - This well-known posture helps calm the mind at the start of the workout. This helps improve digestion and alleviate hypertension or high blood pressure that affects two-thirds of people with type 2 diabetes. This is achieved by spreading out the fingers and sucking in your belly.

4. Big Toe - This is another position with a calming effect. This also helps in digestion and enhances the blood flow to the liver and kidneys to prevent illnesses like the nonalcoholic fatty liver disease. It's perfectly okay to bend the knees in this position if you cannot reach your toes while keeping your legs straight.

5. Triangle - This standing stance stimulates the abdominal organs and helps absorption. This is helpful in keeping your kidneys healthy. Position your back heel against the wall for more support and hold for 3-5 breaths before repeating on the other side.

6. Fish - This is executed at the end of the session to help calm the mind and lower the heart rate. This is one of the restorative poses and is achieved by arching the back to allow the abdomen to open up. Depending on your flexibility, this position can be done with your legs in front of you, knees are bent and feet flat on the floor.