Hi all. This is a new series I am starting today on the occasion of Raksha Bandhan. I know there is no correlation between the new series and the occasion at the first glance. However, there is a common thread in my thought process. Raksha Bandhan is all about wishing for a long and healthy life for loved ones. Being a part of the larger blogging community, and having lost many close people to lifestyle diseases, I plan to do my bit so that all brothers and sisters are actually, truly working towards prioritizing their health and aiming to keep these lifestyle diseases at bay.

What is Diabetes?

Diabetes is a lifestyle disease that, if left uncontrolled, can lead to serious repercussions such as blindness, heart disease, and kidney failure. However, all these conditions can be avoided or delayed using regular exercise and lifestyle modifications.

Diabetes affects around 9.4% of U.S. children and adults, according to the American Diabetes Association. Diabetes is the seventh leading cause of death in America.

Blood sugar is the major source of energy in the body. When the pancreas cannot make insulin or enough of it to regulate levels of blood glucose, we call this diabetes. Since the body cannot use the blood sugar to energize the cells, the glucose remains in the blood and gives rise to complications.

How do Uncontrolled Sugar Levels Impact the Body?

Uncontrolled sugar levels over time can lead to a variety of complications. Some of the most common are:

Eye problems: Uncontrolled blood sugar levels can increase the fluid pressure on the eye (called glaucoma). It can also damage the retinal blood vessels. Increased blood sugar levels can also lead to cataracts.

Nerve damage: This is a very common diabetes complication. Nerve damage leads to numbness and pain. It mainly surfaces in the feet and legs, but can affect any organ.

Heart disease: Diabetes increases the risk of heart diseases.

Kidney disease: Raised blood sugar levels can cause chronic kidney disease (CKD) that can lead to kidney failure.

How does Yoga help?

Yoga originated in India. It harmonizes body and mind. It also helps in balancing the emotions that we encounter every day. It has been clinically proven that Yoga can help to manage lifestyle diseases such as hypertension and diabetes. Yoga enhances the immune system and works on the link between how we feel and its impact on our health.

As a part of our daily routine, yoga helps achieve blood sugar levels control, thus reducing the risk of complications associated with diabetes. Yoga focuses on exercises and practicing putting the body into various poses in synchronization with breathing. This increases flexibility, strength, and a sense of balance.

Yoga Poses to Control Blood Sugar Levels

Kapal Bhati Pranayama

This is also known as the skull shining breathing technique since its regular practice brings a glow to the forehead. It rejuvenates the brain cells and energizes the nervous system. It is highly beneficial for people suffering from diabetes. This is because it massages and stimulates the abdominal organs. In addition, it helps improve blood circulation and enhances mood.

Legs-Up-the-Wall Pose

This is a part of the cool down in yoga and helps in relaxation and restoration. It helps reduce stress levels, which lowers blood sugar. It helps control blood pressure. It works on stimulating the hamstring, the pelvic muscles, and the lower back. It also increases blood circulation and relieves headaches.

Supta Matsyendrasana

It is also known as the lying-down body twist. It helps massage and stimulates internal organs. It also works to improve digestion. It stimulates the pancreas to increase the production of insulin, thus reducing blood sugar levels. The posture stimulates the abdominal organs, thus reducing the harmful effects of diabetes.

Dhanurasana

This is also known as the bow pose. It gets its name for the resemblance of the pose with the shape of a bow. This asana or pose strengthens and regulates the production of Insulin in the pancreas. It is one of the highly recommended poses for people with diabetes. It also works on strengthening the abdominal muscles. It is a well-known stress buster and calms the mood.

Precautions while performing Yoga

1. Yoga must always be learned and practiced in the presence of a trained yoga expert.
2. If you suffer from any disease, inform your yoga instructor before starting the session.
3. Yoga must be practiced in a calm place, with plenty of fresh air and natural light to maximize the benefits.
4. Yoga must be essentially practiced on an empty stomach.

Please let me know your views on this new series of blog posts. Take care. Stay blessed.