Tushar Dealing with diabetes can be quite a complex journey. This condition takes a toll on various organs in your body, and for many, it means a lifetime of managing it. Within the realm of diabetes, there are two primary types, but the one that’s on the rise is the lifestyle-related variety, often referred to as “stress diabetes.” In this blog, we’ll dive into how you can effectively manage and even potentially prevent diabetes by incorporating yoga and the age-old practice of pranayama into your daily life.
Two Main Types of Diabetes
To grasp how yoga and pranayama can assist in diabetes management, it’s essential to have a basic understanding of the two main types of diabetes. Juvenile diabetes is a condition that individuals are born with, requiring insulin treatment from an early age. On the contrary, stress-related diabetes tends to manifest later in life, usually after the age of 30, primarily due to the effects of a stressful lifestyle, extended periods of sitting, and habits such as alcohol consumption and smoking. It’s crucial to emphasize the significance of effectively managing this latter type of diabetes, and this is where the practice of yoga becomes a valuable ally.
Yoga for Diabetes Management
Walking for Health
Maintaining a regular walking routine is a fundamental aspect of promoting good health. According to the wisdom of yogis, it’s highly recommended to engage in 45 minutes of walking in the morning and an additional 30 minutes of walking in the evening. This straightforward habit is known to be particularly beneficial for individuals dealing with heart issues and diabetes, as it helps keep them active and contributes to their overall well-being.
Extremities Exercises
Yoga provides a fantastic way to boost blood circulation to your limbs. Consider poses like Utkatasana, which can work wonders for your extremities. Inhale as you raise your arms and lift onto your toes, and then exhale as you gently squat down. This movement helps stimulate your limbs and enhances overall blood flow.
Twisting for Nerve Relief
Gently twisting your body in the Matsendrasana pose by folding one leg over the other can work wonders for relieving nerve compression between your vertebrae. This is especially beneficial for diabetics who often experience nerve-related problems.
Abdominal Pressure Poses
Abdominal pressure poses, like Paschimottanasana, are a valuable part of yoga practice. These poses help create pressure in the abdominal region, which can be beneficial for managing diabetes by enhancing blood circulation in this area. It’s advisable to begin with a simpler version of this pose and progress gradually towards the full posture as you build your strength and flexibility.
Pavana Muktasana
Pavana Muktasana is a yoga pose where you gently press your knee into your stomach, creating a gentle pressure in your abdominal area. For the best results, it’s advisable to practice this pose on an empty stomach or before a meal. This way, you can fully experience the benefits it offers.
Pranayama for Diabetes Management
Relaxing the Abdomen
To achieve abdominal relaxation, you can practice a simple yet highly effective pranayama technique. Begin by lying down with your legs folded. Place one hand gently on your stomach and turn your attention to your breath. As you inhale, allow your abdomen to naturally rise, and as you exhale, let it gently sink back down. This practice has the wonderful benefit of calming not only your abdominal area but also your nervous system.
Bhastrika Pranayama
Adding Bhastrika Pranayama into your routine by finding a comfortable seated position, such as Sukhasana or Padmasana. Pay close attention to your abdomen and your breath. As you inhale, focus on letting your stomach rise; and as you exhale, allow your stomach to gently contract. Practice this with some vigor, and you should hear the breath making a sound through your nostrils. Aim to complete 30 rounds of this rhythmic breathing. Afterward, take a deep inhalation, hold your breath for a moment, and then exhale. Bhastrika Pranayama is a valuable tool that can aid in managing diabetes effectively.
As you initiate your journey to manage diabetes, it’s important to recognize that many individuals with diabetes tend to be perfectionists. While it’s essential to put in your best effort when it comes to managing your condition, it’s equally valuable to cultivate an attitude of acceptance and appreciation for others just as they are. Stress and frustration can take a toll on your diabetes management, so maintaining a positive and empathetic outlook is key.
In summary, yoga and pranayama offer an inclusive approach to managing diabetes. By integrating these practices into your daily routine, you can expect an improvement in your overall well-being, better control of your blood sugar levels, and a greater sense of peace and balance in your life. So, don’t hesitate to embrace the incredible potential of yoga and pranayama on your journey to naturally managing diabetes.
