Yoga poses to improve Thyroid health

Can Yoga help your Thyroid?

While several studies have shown the positive effect of yoga on improving thyroid function, yoga is a complimentary therapy and it shouldn’t be used as a replacement for any therapies or medications you’re currently undergoing. Consult your doctor before beginning any yoga routine and one must seek for a qualified yoga teacher who can help put a customized regime that will be beneficial for their condition.

Yoga poses for Thyroid

Most of the below mentioned poses are believed to improve circulation and energy flow around the thyroid and stretch and strengthen the neck. Be gentle and easy with yourself and know limitations of your body.

1. Shoulder stand (Sarvangasana)

This is one of the basic poses recommended for thyroid. The shoulder stand is simple and effective because it increases blood flow to the relevant parts of your upper body.

This pose is performed by lying down on the mat and raising legs up to 90 degrees, and at the same time supporting lower part of the body with your hands. Please ensure that your breathing is synchronised with your movements while practicing this pose.

2. Boat Pose (Navasana)

In this pose, the position of your neck is said to have a positive effect on the thyroid glands. It tones the muscles of the abdomen and strengthens the lower back. It is performed by sitting on the floor with your legs extended in front of you and hands placed on the floor besides you. Bend your knees and lift your legs into the air and then straighten your knees, if possible. At the same time, life your arms so they’re parallel to the floor.

3. Cat-cow pose (Marjaryasana)

The movement of the head and neck in this pose can increase blood flow to the throat and thyroid area. This increased blood flow can potentially help to improve thyroid function. In addition, this pose also helps to improve spinal flexibility and alignment, which can help to reduce stress and tension in the body.

4. Cobra pose (Bhujangasana)

This is a gentle pose which increases circulation in the neck region. This pose involves lying down flat on your stomach and lifting up your head, chest, and shoulders. This also strengthens the core of the body, and decreases stress and fatigue.

5. Child pose (Shishu Asana)

It is a simple asana that involves both, the upper and lower body. It engages with your back and neck region, which helps relieve any built-up strain. In addition, it also stretches your spine, ankles, hips, and thighs. Child pose is also a popular recommendation for individuals with hyperthyroidism.

6. Legs-up-the-wall pose (Viparita Karani)

Also called as ‘legs up the wall’ pose, this pose is great for beginners. It does not cause pressure on the neck, but at the same time, it improves circulation to the thyroid gland. This pose also helps in allaying anxiety and stress, and has an overall calming effect on the body.

7. Corpse pose (Shavasana)

Shavasana or Corpse Pose can be a challenging yoga pose for improving thyroid health as it involves lying in stillness for an extended period. This pose stimulates the thyroid by increasing blood circulation, and it also helps to reverse hypothyroidism.

8. Bridge Pose (Setubandhasana)

This is a beneficial yoga pose for improving thyroid health. It involves stretching the neck and thus encourages blood circulation in the thyroid glands.

When should thyroid patients avoid doing yoga?

Though yoga is safe for everyone, there are certain exceptions.

• Women should not practise yoga during their menses.

• Individuals should not do yoga when their mind is in a state of stress.

• Individuals with low-muscle strength should stay careful while doing yoga.

• People suffering from osteoporosis should avoid doing yoga.

• Individuals who have knee, neck, hip and back pain should not practise yoga.

• People leading a sedentary lifestyle should avoid certain yoga asanas as they are at risk of several injuries.