Thyroid Health and Yoga
The thyroid gland is a small butterfly-shaped gland situated behind your Adam’s apple. The hormones it produces affect your energy level and metabolism. The thyroid hormones have several functions in the body that include vitamin utilization, metabolism of protein and fat, modulation of carbohydrates, blood flow, muscle and nerve activity, oxygen utilization, and sexual and reproductive health, among others. Hence, when the level of thyroid hormone in our body becomes out of balance, all the systems in our body get affected
The two most common thyroid diseases are hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism. In hypothyroidism, the thyroid gland produces an insufficient amount of thyroid hormone. On the other hand, hyperthyroidism is the result of the excessive production of thyroid hormones.
There are many treatments available for the two thyroid diseases. Treatment could be in the form of medicines, radioiodine, and surgery. However, another form of treatment is available but has not yet been fully tapped.
Yoga is an ancient form of exercise that originated in India around 5,000 years ago. By practicing it, you would create a balance between your mind and your body. It is beneficial for many medical conditions since it can relieve you of stress, as well as mental and physical disorders.
So, what is the relationship between Thyroid Health and Yoga? In fact, as an alternative form of healing, yoga is suited for thyroid diseases. It can stimulate and hence normalize the functions of the thyroid, pineal, pituitary, and adrenal glands so that they can work at their optimal levels.
A helpful pose for the thyroid is the shoulder stand or the Sarvangasana. To do this, lie flat on your back with your legs together. Raise them up until they are perpendicular to the floor. Press your chin against your chest and put the entire weight of your body on your elbows and shoulders. This asana (posture) aids in correcting the function of the thyroid gland. It helps in regulating your metabolism, control your heart rate, and balance the functions of the nervous and digestive systems.
You may also use the sound of Om. The vibrations’ healing effects will benefit your thyroid. Do at least 20 breaths while making the Om sound. Make it loud and deep so that you can feel vibrations around your lower neck where the thyroid gland is. It is best to do this while lying down so that your body can properly relax.
There are many other asanas for the thyroid, such as matsyasana, naukasana, and yashtikasana. You may also try other pranayamas (breathing) like the anuloma-viloma, kapalabhatti, and ujjayi. Although you should know the relationship between Thyroid Health and Yoga, you have to consult your doctor first before undergoing yoga therapy.