8 Yoga Poses For Reversing Hypothyroidism

Thyroid disorders are quite common in people all across the world. The thyroid is a small gland in the throat which secretes hormones. Hormones secreted by the thyroid gland are responsible for the body's metabolism, temperature and growth. There are basically two kinds of thyroid disorders: hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism. While the former is characterized by the thyroid gland being unable to produce enough thyroid hormones, the latter occurs as a result of the thyroid gland releasing too much hormones. Yoga asanas are considered to be an effective natural remedy for dealing with thyroid disorders. While it may not be able to cure the condition instantly, it can help in keeping the glands healthy and regulate metabolism, thereby preventing any further complications. A study stated that 6 months of intense yoga helped women with hypothyroidism and reduced their need for thyroxine medication.

Here are a few yoga asanas which can help in effectively reducing hypothyroidism. These yoga poses can help in strengthening muscles and also reducing effects of hypothyroidism on the body. People suffering from hyperthyroidism should avoid neck-stretching asanas. They should opt for breathing exercises like pranayama.

Here are a few yoga asanas which can help in effectively reducing hypothyroidism

1. Viparita Karani (Inverted Pose)

This pose is also known as the legs up the wall pose. It is helpful for various ailments including hypothyroidism. It increases blood flow to the thyroid gland and regulates thyroid function. Besides, this pose has a rejuvenating effect on the mind. It also helps in relieving stress, curing insomnia and fighting anxiety.

Also read: 5 Best Yoga Asanas To Prevent Hair Fall

2. Sarvangasana (shoulder stand)

Sarvangasana or shoulder stand helps in maintaining the governing system of the body - the endocrine system. It exerts pressure on the thyroid gland. Thyroid gland receives the largest supply of blood. Sarvangasana helps in improving blood circulation and squeezing stagnant secretion. It releases blood into the neck and helps nourish the thyroid and reversing hypothyroidism.

Shoulder stand helps in reversing hypothyroidism
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3. Ustrasana (Camel Pose)

This pose too can stimulate the thyroid gland by stretching the neck and increasing blood circulation in the gland. Practicing this yoga pose for thyroid can also help in relieving issues of the spine. It also helps in bringing relief to people suffering from asthma. However, this pose should be avoided I case you have hernia or ulcers. People with arthritis, vertigo and abdominal injuries should avoid doing the camel pose.

Also read: Yoga Poses For Different Body Types As Per Ayurveda, Know Yours

4. Setu Bandhasana (bridge pose)

Setu bandhasana or the bridge pose is an effective yoga for thyroid, especially hypothyroidism. It stretches the neck and improves blood circulation in the thyroid gland. The pose is also effective for treating asthma, reducing headaches and strengthening muscles. People in the final stage of their pregnancy should avoid doing the bridge pose.

Bridge pose improves blood circulation in thyroid gland
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5. Halasana (plough pose)

This pose helps in stretching of the neck and stimulates the thyroid glands. However, this pose must not be performed by people with hyperthyrodisim as it facilitates secretion of thyroid hormones. This pose also helps in strengthening abdominal muscles and back muscles along with relaxing the autonomous nervous systems.

Halasana stimulates thyroid gland
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6. Matsyasana (fish pose)

Matsyasana or fish pose makes your back arch in a way that it increased blood circulation in the thyroid gland. This pose stretches the neck and throat and stimulates the thyroid gland. It relieves a lot of tension in the area. The pose is done by inverting the head. This encourages blood flow to the thyroid gland and is thus good for people suffering from hypothyroidism. This pose also helps in maintaining health of abdominal muscles and the spinal column.

Fish pose is an effective yoga pose for reversing hypothyroidism
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Also read: Top Ways Yoga Can Help You Have Flawless Skin

7. Dhanurasana (bow pose)

This yoga pose for thyroid massages the thyroid gland and compels it to produce the required amount of thyroid hormone for controlling metabolism. It is thus an effective pose for treating with hypothyroidism. This pose helps in strengthening of back, reducing stress and relieving menstrual pain.

Bow regulates thyroid gland to produce enough hormones
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8. Bhujangasana (cobra pose)

This pose is a part of the very beneficial surya namaskar. This pose stretches the neck and throat region, thereby increasing thyroid functioning. It is helpful for people suffering from hypothyroidism. People with back pain or neck pain should also do bhujangasana as it helps in strengthening and toning of muscles. Avoid this pose in case you have recently undergone an abdominal surgery or have hernia or ulcers.

Cobra pose stimulates thyroid functioning
Photo Credit: iStock

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