November is National
Diabetes Month, and World Diabetes Day is November 14th;
the goal is to raise awareness about diabetes in order for people to access education,
treatment, and care, including preventative care.
Not only is yoga an effective way to help prevent
diabetes, but it is also good for those already diagnosed. One of the foundations
of controlling one’s blood sugar is regular exercise, and yoga is the ideal way
to obtain physical activity and naturally unwind at the same time.
Yoga helps with diabetes by:
- Reducing
Stress. Yoga helps to reduce the levels of cortisol, which
helps with proper insulin action.
- Stimulating
the internal organs. Yoga helps to fuel the internal organs,
including the pancreas.
- Increasing
circulation and controlling blood pressure. Yoga’s focus on
breath and movement can boost circulation, especially to the extremities.
The following 3 yoga poses can help not only those
with diabetes, but can also help with diabetes prevention as well.
EASY POSE.
Breathing in and out through the nose helps oxygenate your blood and improves
circulation. It also calms the mind. Sit
cross legged with your back straight and your elbows bent slightly. Gently
place your wrists on your knees, with your palms facing up. Take several deep
breathes in and out through your nose, before moving onto the next posture.
BRIDGE POSE.
This yoga posture helps to keep your blood pressure under control and also
helps to relax the mind. In addition, it
stretches the neck and spine. Lie on your back and bend your knees, with your
arms straight underneath you. Slowly lift your hips up high as you press into
your shoulders. Take several deep breaths in and out through your nose before
moving onto the next posture.
MOUSE (CHILD’S POSE).
This is a great stress reliever, as it gently stretches the hips, thighs and
ankles while calming the mind at the same time. Sitting on your heels, gently
bring your head towards the floor. As you fold into your upper body, place your
arms at your side and focus on breathing in and out through your nose to calm
your mind and body.
