Yoga is an excellent practice for promoting overall health and well-being, including cardiovascular health, says Himalayan Siddhaa Akshar, Founder of Akshar Yoga Kendraa. However, if you have any heart problems or other health issues, check with a doctor before practising yoga. (Images by Pexels, Freepik)
"Engaging in regular yoga practice can help improve circulation, reduce stress levels, and strengthen the heart muscle. By incorporating specific yoga poses into your routine, you can support cardiovascular function and maintain a healthy heart," Himalayan Siddhaa Akshar shares. He shares 10 such yoga asanas.
Stand tall with your feet hip-width apart. Ground down through your feet and lengthen through your spine. Bring your palms together at your heart center or let them hang by your sides. Take deep breaths. Mountain Pose or Tadasana helps improve posture and circulation, which are essential for heart health.
Begin on your hands and knees, then lift your hips up and back, forming an inverted V shape with your body. Keep your heels reaching towards the ground. Downward-facing dog or Adho Mukha Svanasana is a great pose for stretching the spine, shoulders, and hamstrings, while also improving circulation.
Step your feet wide apart. Turn your right foot out to the side and bend your right knee, stacking it directly over your ankle. Extend your arms out to the sides, parallel to the floor. Warrior II or Virabhadrasana II strengthens the legs and opens the chest, promoting better circulation throughout the body.
Lie on your back with your knees bent and feet hip-width apart. Lift your hips towards the ceiling, and keep your shoulders grounded. Interlace your fingers beneath your back. Bridge Pose or Setu Bandhasana stretches the chest, neck, and spine, while also stimulating the heart and improving circulation.
Lie on your stomach with your palms planted near your chest. Press into your hands and lift your chest off the mat, while keeping your shoulders relaxed and away from your ears. Cobra Pose or Bhujangasana strengthens the spine and opens the heart, helping to improve circulation and relieve stress and tension in the body.
Sit on the mat, extend your legs, and reach for your feet or shins. Relax into the stretch and breathe deeply. Seated Forward Bend or Paschimottanasana stretches the spine and hamstrings, while also calming the mind and reducing stress.
Lie on your back with your legs extended and arms resting by your sides. Press your forearms and elbows into the mat as you lift your chest towards the ceiling. Fish Pose or Matsyasana opens the chest and throat, while also stimulating the thyroid gland and improving circulation.
Lie flat on your back, close your eyes, and let go of tension in your body and mind. Stay in this pose for a few minutes to rejuvenate and refresh. Corpse Pose or Savasana is a deeply relaxing pose that allows the body and mind to rest and rejuvenate, promoting overall heart health.
"Incorporating these yoga poses into your daily routine can help support cardiovascular health and promote overall well-being. Remember to listen to your body and modify the poses as needed to suit your individual needs and abilities. Along with yoga practice, maintaining a healthy diet, staying hydrated, and getting regular exercise are also important factors in maintaining a healthy heart," says Himalayan Siddha Akshar.