Yoga for Diabetes
The pancreas controls the body’s sugar levels and sits near the stomach in the abdomen. It is part of the digestive system and located in the abdomen, behind the stomach and next to the duodenum – the first part of the small intestine.
Grand Master Akshar recommends these two Yogic techniques for diabetes. They activate the pancreas improving their function and help in regulating blood sugar levels.
Diabetes is classified into 2 types:
- Type 1 Diabetes –Constitutes 10% of all reported cases. This is a condition where the body does not produce insulin.
- Type 2 Diabetes – Approximately 90% of all cases of diabetes worldwide are of this type. In this condition, the body does not produce enough insulin.
Yoga asanas stretch, twist and turn the lumbar and thoracic regions of our body, where the pancreas is located. This improves the production of insulin and lowers blood sugar. Yoga also has a huge, positive impact on our parasympathetic nervous system. It reduces stress hormones, a major trigger for diabetes.
KapalBhati
Formation:
Sit in a comfortable position of Sukhasana, ArdhaPadmasana, Vajrasana or PoornaPadmasana. Keep your back straight, shoulders relaxed and close your eyes to focus on your breath. Place your palms on your knees facing upward (in Prapthi Mudra).
Technique:
Inhale normally and focus on exhaling with a short, rhythmic and forceful breath. You can use your stomach to forcefully expel all the air from the diaphragm and lungs by compressing it. Inhalation should happen automatically while you decompress your stomach. To be practised daily at MadhyamGathi (Medium Speed) for 3 minutes
Benefits:
- KapalBhati improves function of digestive tract and the absorption and assimilation of nutrients – vital for better health
- This largely helps in weight loss and toning of the abdominal muscles
- Boosts the function of the respiratory system
- Increased concentration and focus
Caution:
To be avoided if in case of: High blood pressure, Hernia, Heart ailments, Back- related problems
Manduka Asana – Frog pose
Formation of the Posture
- From Paschimotthanasan, bend your knees and place them on the floor
- Lower your pelvis and place it on your heels to sit in Vajrasan
- Extend your arms in front of you
- Fold your thumbs into your palms
- Wrap the remaining four fingers over it and ball your fist
- Bend your arms at your elbows, place your balled fists over your navel
- Bend your upper body and place it over your lower body
- Stretch your neck and focus your gaze forward
Breathing Methodology
Exhale while you bend forward.
Benefits
- It massages the abdominal organs
- It relieves from constipation
- It aids in digestion and helps in releasing built up gases
- It is also a preventive treatment for diabetes
- It relaxes the body and reduces nervousness
Word of advice
- Pregnant women should refrain from practicing this asana
- If experiencing pain in the ankle or have recently undergone an injury or surgery to the ankles/ligaments, one must avoid this asana
- In case of ulcer issues, one must avoid this asana
- In case of pain or injury to knees or back, please refrain from performing this asana
