Cholesterol: Nadi Shodhan Pranayama can help manage cholesterol levels
A lipid called cholesterol is found in the bloodstream and is commonly thought to be harmful to the body. Contrary to popular assumption, cholesterol is crucial for the body's upkeep and normal operation. The construction of membranes and membrane fluids requires cholesterol. Furthermore, it is well known to be crucial in the production of hormones including progesterone, oestrogen, and testosterone as well as Vitamin D.
Even while it is beneficial to the body, too much cholesterol can be dangerous. Bloodstream blockages brought on by excessive cholesterol can eventually result in heart-related issues. Adopting a better lifestyle that includes wholesome eating practices and frequent exercise is crucial to control its level. Yoga can help us manage our cholesterol levels and help prevent high bad cholesterol altogether.
Here are 4 yoga poses that help lower cholesterol:
1. Paschimottanasana
- Sit straight in your legs straight in front of you
- In this position, your feet's soles should be facing front
- Slowing bring your torso closer to your legs and as far as possible
- You can use your hands to hold your feet, this may increase how far you can reach
- In this position, your stomach and chest are supposed to be touching your thighs
- Your face can be facing the front or towards the legs, whichever may be comfortable
- Hold this position for 10-20 seconds and sit back up
- You can repeat it a few times based on your convenience
2. Sarvangasana
- In this pose, you require to hold your legs above your head
- To do so, traditionally, you lay on your back and lift your legs above the ground at a 90-degree angle
- You further, use your arms to push your legs to lift further
- At this point, the only body parts touching the ground are your head, arms (from shoulder to elbows), and upper back
- Your toes are supposed to be facing the sky
- However, being able to do this asana comfortably takes time and practice. Hence, you can try using the support of a wall to rest your legs at a 90 degrees angle
- To better perform this asana as a beginner, you can place 1-2 pillows under your lower back to further elevate the body with exterior support
3. Nadi Shodhan Pranayama
- Sit with your back straight and your legs folded
- Place your right hand's tips of the index and middle finger on your forehead, between your eyebrows
- Now, gently place the thumb over your right nostril
- Place your ring finger on the left nostril
- Lift your thumb and inhale from your right nostril and place your hand back on your right nostril
- Exhale from your left nostril and then inhale from the same nostril
- Repeat this a few times
- Make sure to not force the breathing, this exercise is supposed to be gentle and relaxing
4. Balasana
- Sit straight with your legs folded
- At this point, your feet are supposed to be facing upwards
- Now, slowly bend your torso forward on the floor
- At this point, your arms should be extending forward as well, as far as possible
- Your face should also be facing the floor as well as your palms
- Your calves, forehead, and palms should all be touching the ground in this position
- As it only stretches your body and is a resting pose, it provides comfort and relaxation
- Hold this position for 10-15 seconds and perform 4-5 sets daily.
In conclusion, try these yoga poses to manage your cholesterol levels. Make sure to also incorporate cholesterol-friendly foods into your diet.
Disclaimer: This content including advice provides generic information only. It is in no way a substitute for a qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist or your own doctor for more information. NDTV does not claim responsibility for this information.