Yoga for Diabetics

Yoga is considered to be a promising, cost-effective option in the treatment and prevention of diabetes.
There are many postures and breathing exercises in yoga which would induce the pancreas to produce enough insulin to regulate the sugar in the body.

HealthyDunia.com speaks toMrs. Smita Naram,Co-founder,Ayushakti and find out Yogasanas which a diabetic person can practice:

1. Kapalabhati Pranayama: Pranayama techniques are simple breathing exercises that have extensive benefits. By mastering the art of pranayama, you can cure your body of a range of diseases including diabetics.

Investing half-an-hour in a day will improve the oxygen circulation throughout the body. It enhances the intake of oxygen and exhalation of carbon dioxide from the body. Besides it improve the working of lungs and other respiratory organs. Improvement in breathing improves the action of other body parts also as proper oxygen content is necessary for overall body functioning.

2. Anulom Vilom: Anulom Vilom or the Alternate Nostril Breathing, is one of the most effective pranayama (breathing exercises) to purify the mind and body. It can be performed by people of all ages.

To perform Anulom Vilom, close your eyes and relax all your muscles for while. Then, inhale from your left nostril while keeping your right nostril closed with the thumb of your right hand. Retain the breath for a few seconds and exhale from your right nostril with your middle and ring fingers closing your left nostril. Then, once again take in the breath from your right nostril. Finally, exhale from your left nostril while closing your right nostril with your thumb. This will complete one round of the pranayama. You could perform this exercise for around 15 minutes while taking a minute rest after every 5 minutes.

Anulom vilom pranayam is an incredible energizer, which works effectively to relieve stress and anxiety. Regular practitioners have also treated their serious health conditions, which include heart problems, diabetes, cartilage, depression, asthma, high blood pressure and arthritis.

3. Vajrasana: Vajrasana or the Diamond Pose is one of the easiest yoga postures to perform, and it can be done by anyone without adding stress to the other parts of the body. It is possible for the practitioner to remain in this posture for long periods of time.

To perform the Vajrasana or the Diamond Pose, sit on the ground with your legs stretched out and kept together. Both your palms should be resting on your right leg so that they bear the weight of your body. Then let your knees slowly fold back so that you are sitting on them with your back straight. Let your breathing be normal and bring the palms of your hands to the respective knees. You should keep your focus on the ajna chakra, which is located between the eyebrows. Then come back to the starting position by placing your arms at the sides of your body.

This is great for your digestive system and helps to strengthen it besides treating problems related to it. It also gets rid of excess wind or gas in your belly and promotes good digestion. It is beneficial to practice this asana after having your meals as it aids digestion. This asana or pose is also great to add strength to your calf and thigh muscles.

4. Paschimottasana: Paschimottasana is a sitting asana also referred to as the 'forward seated bend'. This asana is good for those suffering from diabetes. It is known to stimulate the functioning of the internal organs like liver, pancreas and kidney.

To perform the Paschimottasanais, sit on a yoga mat in a comfortable position with legs outstretched in front. Bend your head to touch your knees and exhale completely. Grasp the toes with your fingers. Maintain this position for a few breaths and inhale when you return to the original position. Repeat this asana 2-3 times.Caution: Please do not attempt any of the asanas on your own unless you have been guided by a yoga guru or certified teacher.