FITNESS AND EXERCISE
Diabetes and Yoga
An increasing number of people with diabetes mellitus are turning to yoga in an effort to keep their condition under control and improve overall quality of life.
It is well known that regular practice of yoga can help reduce levels of stress, enhance mobility, lower blood pressure and improve overall wellbeing.
It is these benefits that many health experts believe can improve diabetes management and protect against other related medical conditions such as heart disease.
What is yoga?Yoga is a series of mental, physical and spiritual disciplines that originated in ancient India over 5,000 years ago.
The practice of yoga helps to co-ordinate the breath, mind and body to promote relaxatio, develop breath awareness and provide a sense of inner peace.
It involves various body postures and movements (known as asanas), breathing techniques and meditation, which are all designed to promote physical comfort and mental composure.
There are several forms of yoga, but in the west the most widely taught form is Hatha Yoga.
Benefits of yogaMost, if not all, people who undergo regular yoga training experience improvements in their mental and physical health. [73]
These benefits can include:
- Better sleep
- Reduced anxiety and depression
- Enhanced feelings of well-being
- Relief from chronic illnesses
- Improved digestion, circulation, and immunity
- Improved posture, flexibility and strength
- Enhanced concentration and energy levels
- Enhanced function and efficiency of respiratory, neurological and endocrine organs
Benefits for people with diabetesYoga is considered to be a promising, cost-effective option in the treatment and prevention of diabetes, with data from several studies suggesting that yoga and other mind-body therapies can reduce stress-related hyperglycemia and have a positive effect on blood glucose control.
Controlling mental stress (stress management) is one of the keys of diabetes treatment When we’re stressed, our blood sugar levels increase and elevated blood sugar levels increase the chances of serious complications such as heart disease.
