People tend to think of yoga as being just an exercise program; however, yoga is much more than that; it has been proven to improve both mind and body health for those who practice.
One randomised, comparative study demonstrated that those who participated in yoga classes exhibited lower levels of inflammatory markers compared to those who did not engage with this intervention.
Reduces inflammation
Yoga offers an effective solution for treating inflammation caused by many autoimmune diseases, using gentle movements, controlled breathing techniques and relaxation techniques to lower overall inflammation in the body while supporting immune function and strengthening lymphatic systems.
Studies on the effects of yoga for Rheumatoid Arthritis patients revealed that those participating in a 10-week hatha yoga course had lower inflammation, pain and depression levels compared to control group participants as well as experiencing improved overall quality of life.
To ease inflammatory symptoms, try practicing deep breathing techniques such as Nadi Shodhana (Alternate Nostril Breathing) and Bhramari Pranayama (Humming Bee Breathing). Furthermore, restorative yoga poses like supported bridge pose, leg-up-the-wall pose and corpse pose can reduce fatigue and support recovery. Incorporating restorative meditation practices like mindfulness or body scan meditation into your routine may further lower stress levels while creating a sense of relaxation, all which ultimately improve immune function and quality of life.
Reduces stress and anxiety
Autoimmune diseases are frequently brought on by stress. Yoga practices such as breath work and relaxation techniques can help decrease stress levels, which then in turn improve sleep patterns – key elements for maintaining a strong immune system.
Studies on yoga’s impact on protein immunological markers such as cytokines and DNA methylation levels among non-clinical populations has found that regular yoga practice can significantly lower levels of immune markers – particularly among women experiencing psychological distress.
This pilot study represents one of the first nonclinical yoga interventions on inflammation, as well as one of the first studies analyzing T-cell subsets and DNA methylation levels. Although more research needs to be conducted in order to fully comprehend Yoga’s molecular impact on these measures, its preliminary results are promising. Meanwhile, adding yoga techniques into your daily routine can support healthy immunity while simultaneously improving quality of life – just make sure you seek a qualified and experienced teacher for safety purposes and proper technique!
Improves sleep
Autoimmune diseases can disrupt sleeping patterns and leave patients exhausted, but yoga’s relaxation techniques can improve sleep quality by restoring natural body rhythms. Engaging in regular bedtime yoga practices may help patients establish more restful sleeping patterns for improved wellbeing.
One study conducted by researchers revealed that women living with rheumatoid arthritis who practiced yoga reported better sleep quality compared to the control group. Furthermore, yoga participants experienced improved physical fitness, mental wellbeing, and overall quality of life.
Supported Bridge Pose and Legs Up the Wall can help reduce inflammation, improve circulation and promote relaxation. Incorporating restorative breathing exercises like Nadi Shodhana (Alternate Nostril Breathing) or Bhramari Pranayama (Humming Bee Breath) into your yoga practice can also help soothe your mind and lower stress levels – two common triggers of autoimmune flare-ups.
Enhances overall quality of life
Yoga offers relief to many autoimmune diseases by improving joint mobility and flexibility, which helps decrease discomfort. Furthermore, its gentle movements and stretching poses decrease levels of proinflammatory cytokines which cause further swelling.
Yoga can also help combat stress and anxiety, two common symptoms of autoimmune disease. Through meditation and relaxation techniques taught during yoga classes, one can activate their body’s natural relaxation response which in turn lowers stress hormones while soothing nervous systems.
One study demonstrated that people living with Lupus who practiced yoga experienced significant improvements in both quality of life and health satisfaction compared to those who didn’t participate. Yoga reduced fatigue while simultaneously increasing energy levels – so why not add simple yet relaxing yoga practices into your daily routine for greater energy and overall quality of life? OnlyMyHealth interviewed Himalayan Siddha Akshar of Akshar Yoga Kendraa as well as author for more insight on its benefits for autoimmune conditions.
