Yoga and Chronic Illness
Yoga is a helpful practice for anyone who struggles with chronic illness, whether it is depression, IBS, or any other kind of ailment.
There are many physical and mental health benefits that come from practicing yoga. It's proven to alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety while increasing energy levels. For people with IBS, studies show that the breathing patterns used in yoga help to reduce digestive upset caused by stress.
Yoga as Treatment for Chronic Illness
Yoga has been around since ancient times, and the practice is gaining in popularity. There are many benefits to practicing yoga, but did you know that yoga may also help people suffering from chronic diseases?
This blog covers how yoga can be used to treat or manage conditions like arthritis, cancer, Crohn’s disease, diabetes (type 1 and type 2), epilepsy, high blood pressure, heart disease/heart failure/stroke/cardiovascular disease (all types), multiple sclerosis (MS) and Parkinson’s Disease.
Important Factors to know about Yoga Treatment
Yoga has been around since ancient times, and the practice is gaining in popularity. There are many benefits to practicing yoga, but did you know that yoga may also help people suffering from chronic diseases?
This blog covers how yoga can be used to treat or manage conditions like arthritis, cancer, Crohn’s disease, diabetes (type 1 and type 2), epilepsy, high blood pressure, heart disease/heart failure/stroke/cardiovascular disease (all types), multiple sclerosis (MS) and Parkinson’s Disease.
If you are thinking of practicing yoga to manage an illness it is important to know what to expect. Here are some key factors you need to be aware of before starting a yoga program:
1. Yoga is not a substitute for medical treatmentPeople with chronic illnesses need to take prescribed medications and follow their doctor’s advice regarding nutrition, rest, and activity levels.
2. You need Guidance for better ResultsYoga is best done under supervision at the beginning because it can be very challenging for people who are not used to exercising. You need a general practitioner to help you get started.
3. Yoga Is Not "All In"Yoga can be a part of a healthy lifestyle for a person with a chronic illness, but it will not cure the illness. There are many approaches to yoga that can be adapted for people living with chronic illnesses or they can be used in conjunction with medications and medical treatments. Many types of yoga don’t involve any physical exertion but focus on stretching and breathing techniques, meditative practices, and guided visualization techniques to calm the mind and body.
4. Yoga Is Managed ProperlyThere are many different approaches to yoga. One of the most common is Ashtanga, which has more of a physical focus, while Iyengar Yoga focuses on health and balance. Some programs combine both styles. It is important to find an approach that is appropriate for your needs. A yoga teacher can guide you through this process, provided they are certified by an established yoga organization with proper training in chronic illness management.
Conclusion
The use of Yoga to manage or treat chronic illness has become more common over the years, but it is still very misunderstood by many people including health care professionals. On top of all these benefits, practicing yoga can also teach you how to take a break from your hectic life in a healthy way. It doesn't take much time out of your day and can help you combat feelings of loneliness when left alone with chronic pain.