Yoga for Thyroid

Thyroid, at the elemental level it is seen as an imbalance of the ether element that interferes with the functioning of prana vayu and vayan vayu. At the physical level, it manifests as hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism disturbing the body metabolic processes. Some of the symptoms include sudden change in weight, thinning of hair, sluggishness or nervousness, husky voice, skin changes, and abnormal menstrual flow.

Such a condition may be attributed to emotional turmoil or hyperactivity, which leads to congestion of prana and disrupt free flow in the pranamaya kosha. Each of the chakras in the pranic body controls certain physical processes of the body. An imbalance at the pranic level thus manifests as a disease in the physical body. Thyroid indicates the malfunctioning of the Visshudhi Chakra.

Sanatan Kriya, which is a wholesome practice to help the modern man cope with routine challenges of emotional and physical stress, includes certain techniques to stimulate the Visshuddhi.

1. Halasana

• Pic source: wikimedia.org

  Lie down straight on your back. Inhale.
• Slowly raise both the legs and take them over your head, finally touching the toes to the floor.
• Palms can be placed either at the lower back to provide support or can be taken backwards touching the toes.

2. Kandharasana

• Pic source: zentrajapan.com

  Lie flat on the back, bending the knees bring heels close to the hip.
• Hold the ankles with the hands.
• Keeping the shoulder and head firmly on the ground start raising the hips and back, till the back is completely arched and the pelvis thrusts outwards, lock your chin into the chest.

These asanas are not suitable for people with stomach ailments and spinal injuries.

In case of hypothyroidism, Ayurveda prescribes intake of 3 to 4 tablespoons of virgin coconut oil everyday to stimulate the functioning of thyroid gland.