Are you facing sudden weight loss, trouble having a peaceful sleep, heightened levels of anxiety, or sudden sensitivity to heat, then you my friend, are suffering from an overactive thyroid gland leading to Hyperthyroidism.

Also Read: Diagnosed With Thyroid? Super Easy Ways To Manage The Disorder

What Is Hyperthyroidism?

Hyperthyroidism is a condition where the thyroid gland produces an excess of thyroid hormones, which can wreak havoc on the body's delicate balance. From rapid weight loss, insomnia, heat sensitivity, fatigue, and changes in bowel movement to anxiety and palpitations, the symptoms can be extremely challenging to manage. However, emerging as a holistic approach to complement medical interventions, yoga offers a gentle yet powerful avenue for individuals grappling with hyperthyroidism and can contribute to overall well-being.

How Does Yoga Manage Hyperthyroidism?

Stress is a significant exacerbating factor for hyperthyroidism symptoms. Yoga's impact on the endocrine system is profound. With its emphasis on controlled breathing and mindfulness, it provides an effective tool for stress reduction. The practice encourages balance in hormone production, potentially helping to regulate thyroid function

Practices such as deep belly breathing (diaphragmatic breathing), twisting poses and meditation help activate the body's relaxation response, stimulate the thyroid and parathyroid glands, and promote harmony in the endocrine system.

Here are 5 such proven yoga postures to soothe the overactive thyroid gland and manage the associated symptoms effectively.

Therapeutic Yoga Poses To Manage Hyperthyroidism

Sarvangasana (Shoulder Stand):

Lie on your back, lift your legs and torso off the floor, support your lower back with your hands, and straighten your legs upward, bringing your body into a vertical line. Hold the pose, breathe deeply, and gradually lower your legs back down with control.

Benefits:

The Shoulder stand pose stimulates the thyroid gland, promoting balance in hormone production.

Halasana (Plow Pose):

Lie on your back, lift your legs over your head, and lower them towards the floor behind you while supporting your lower back with your hands. Keep your legs straight and engage your core, holding the pose while breathing deeply.

Benefits:

The Plow pose enhances circulation to the thyroid, fostering improved glandular function.

Matsyasana (Fish Pose):

Lie on your back, lift your chest by pressing your forearms into the ground, arch your back, and gently tilt your head back, bringing the crown of your head to the floor for Matsyasana. Maintain the pose, open your chest and throat, and breathe deeply.

Benefits:

The Fish pose stretches the neck and stimulates the thyroid, potentially aiding in regulation.

Viparita Karani (Legs Up the Wall Pose):

Lie on your back near a wall, place your legs vertically against the wall, and relax your arms by your sides. Breathe deeply, allowing the pose to promote relaxation and improve circulation.

Benefits:

This pose promotes relaxation and helps regulate blood flow, influencing thyroid function.

Setu Bandhasana (Bridge Pose):

Lie on the yoga mat on your back, with your knees bent, and your feet hip-width apart. Lift your hips towards the ceiling, clasping your hands underneath your back, and hold the position while breathing steadily.

Benefits:

The Bridge pose strengthens the neck muscles and stimulates the thyroid gland.

Guidance and Precautions:

While yoga can offer significant benefits, individuals with hyperthyroidism should approach the practice with mindfulness. It's crucial to consult with a healthcare professional before beginning a yoga routine, especially if there are other underlying health conditions. Yoga instructors with therapeutic practice experience can guide and tailor routines to individual needs.

References:

• Effect of yogic practices on thyroid hormones: A review Shuchi Mohan, Rameswar Pal

chrome-extension://efaidnbmnnnibpcajpcglclefindmkaj/https://yoga.ayush.gov.in/Publications/gallery/PUBLICATION/Yogic%20practices%20on%20thyroid%20hormones,%20A%20review.pdf

• Scientific yoga module for hypothyroidism: A study protocol for tele-yoga RCT - Savithri Nilkantham,∗ Vijaya Majumdar, and Amit Singh

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10277449/