Introduction
In our daily life, we must have come across some people who keep on eating but obesity does not even come close to them and some people become fat just by thinking about eating, let alone eating.
Some people go about their work all day long full of energy and some others have to drag their bodies like heavy loads. All these examples show the limits of diversity in the activities of the energy system in bodily metabolism.
The actual process of metabolism is really very complex and mysterious, but it is certainly proved that bodily metabolism is controlled by the hormones of the thyroid gland and this gland is controlled by the pituitary gland, which is directly connected to the brain. Therefore, the speed of metabolism of healthy persons is determined by the brain and the endocrine system on the basis of physical and emotional reactions and demands.
The thyroid gland is wrapped around the main windpipe in front of the neck. This gland has two bodies, one on the right side of the windpipe and the other on the left side. This gland can be felt at the bottom of the throat moving up and down in front of the windpipe during the process of swallowing.
It secretes two chemicals, which we call ‘thyroxine’ and ‘triiodothyronine’. The amount of these two chemicals present in the blood determines the speed of our metabolism.
In this disease, excessive secretion of chemicals by the glands occurs. There can be many reasons for this problem. This disease is more common in women than men, whose age is between 30 to 50 years. All the symptoms of this disease are seen in every system due to excessive increase in the appetite process. When the energy level increases, the person feels more hungry. But the specialty is that even after eating a lot, the person becomes lean. Apart from this, due to the movement of muscles, hands and legs start trembling.
At the mental level, the speed and stability of thoughts, anger, irritability and anger etc. increase. Even attacks of steatorrhea or seizures can occur because the pressure of all the organs increases. The heartbeat and the speed of breathing increase. Breathing becomes fast and irregular. Due to the increased activity of hands, diarrhea occurs. Excessive heat is felt, sweating occurs and menstruation becomes irregular.
Yogic Approach in Thyroid
In yoga, the thyroid gland is related to the Vishuddhi Chakra. Vishuddhi Chakra, as is clear from its name, purifies the internal ‘toxin’ and converts it into Amrit. The process of metabolism is also a kind of purification process, which involves refining the essential elements from food, using the pure substances for energy production and excreting the excreted toxic elements.
Before the Vishuddhi Chakra can perform the purification function smoothly, it has to be balanced according to the physical demands. When the Vishuddhi Chakra is balanced, the thyroid gland associated with it will be able to perform balanced functions and carry out the metabolic process properly.
Thyroid disease disturbs the subtle balance of the entire endocrine system. Here the importance of yogic treatment becomes clear. Yogic treatment balances not only the thyroid, but the entire system and brings it to an optimal condition.
Types of Thyroid
There are two types of thyroid gland disorders:
(1) Hypothyrodism
(2) Hyperthyrodism
Hypothyroidism: A condition where the thyroid gland doesn’t produce enough thyroid hormones, leading to symptoms such as fatigue, weight gain, and cold sensitivity.
Hyperthyroidism: This occurs when the thyroid gland produces too much thyroid hormone, resulting in symptoms such as weight loss, rapid heartbeat, and anxiety.
Thyroid- Symptoms and Causes
Symptoms
Symptoms of thyroid disorders can vary depending on whether the thyroid gland is overactive (hyperthyroidism) or underactive (hypothyroidism). Here are some common symptoms for each:
Hyperthyroidism (Overactive Thyroid):
• Weight loss despite increased appetite
• Rapid heartbeat (tachycardia), Difficulty sleeping
• Anxiety, irritability, or nervousness
• Tremors in the hands and fingers. Difficulty sleeping
• Heat intolerance and increased sweating
• Frequent bowel movements or diarrhea
• Muscle weakness Changes in menstrual patterns
• Enlarged thyroid gland (goiter)
Hypothyroidism (Underactive Thyroid):
• Fatigue and weakness
• Weight gain or difficulty losing weight
• Dry, coarse skin and hair
• Cold intolerance
• Constipation
• Muscle cramps and joint pain
• Depression or mood swings
• Memory problems or difficulty concentrating
• Slow heart rate (bradycardia)
• Enlarged thyroid gland (goiter)
Causes
The causes of thyroid disorders can be categorized into several main factors:
♦ Living a very stressful life affects the activity of thyroid hormone.
♦ The thyroid glands are especially affected by the amount of iodine in the diet being less or more.
♦ This disease can also be genetic. If other family members also have this problem, then the chances of its occurrence are higher.
♦ Imbalance in thyroid hormones is seen in women during pregnancy because at this time many hormonal changes occur in the body of women.
♦ Due to excessive use of soy products in food.
Yogic Management of Thyroid
Asana
Sarvangasana is an universally accepted asana for keeping the thyroid gland healthy. This asana has a powerful effect on the gland. Therefore, Sarvangasana has a positive effect on all thyroid diseases, whether hyperactive or sluggish, because balance will improve both conditions. Keeping alertness on the movement of breath in the throat while performing Sarvangasana increases the effect of the asana even more.
Matsyasana should be practiced after Sarvangasana. Apart from Sarvangasana, Halasana, Pasini Mudra, Padma Sarvangasana, and other related variations can be practiced from the same position.
Increasing the amount of iodine in the diet is an essential primary measure. Other effective asanas include Surya Namaskar, Pawanmuktasana, Yoga Mudra, Supta Vajrasana, all backward bending asanas, Kandharasana, Greevasana and Simhasana, etc. Pawanmuktasana is a useful initial exercise in old and weak persons and in comparatively serious patients.
Pranayama
The most effective pranayama for diseases of the chullika is Ujjayi. This practice stimulates the sensitive nerves and blood vessels in the inner skin of the throat. Since the reflexes of the throat are directly related to the brain, we can assume that the vibrations produced by pranayama can affect these areas and help in bringing about endocrine balance.
Some practices affect the entire body’s metabolism along with the chullika, such as Nadi Shodhan Pranayama.
Sheetali and Sheetkari pranayama reduce the ill effects of excessive metabolism in chulika hyperactivity and cool down the increased heat of the body.
Similarly, the practice of Bhastrika pranayama, which produces heat, will prove useful in chulika slowness and will increase the metabolic rate.
Bandh
Bandhas should be practiced after mastering the initial practices. For example, Jalandhara Bandha, which puts pressure on the glands, can be carefully taught along with pranayama. Other bandhas can also be included in the pranayama practice routine to enhance the effects of pranayama.
After a few months, the most advanced and powerful practices, such as Mahabandha, Mahamudra, Mahabheda Mudra, etc., which provide health and harmony to all body systems, can be included in the practice routine.
Will walking help in thyroid?
Yes, walking and other types of regular exercise can be beneficial for managing thyroid health. Physical activity can help improve metabolism, reduce stress levels, and promote overall well-being, which may indirectly support thyroid function.
Regular physical activity, including walking, can help boost metabolism, which may be beneficial for individuals with thyroid problems, especially those with an underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism), as it can aid in weight management. And can prevent weight gain.
Exercise is known to reduce stress levels by releasing endorphins, which are natural mood lifters. Since stress can have a negative impact on thyroid function, managing stress through activities like walking can help overall thyroid health. Walking promotes better blood circulation throughout the body, which can help deliver essential nutrients and oxygen to the thyroid gland, supporting its optimal function.
Regular physical activity can help regulate hormone levels in the body, including hormones related to thyroid function. Exercise can contribute to maintaining a balance in hormone production and sensitivity.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which yoga is best for thyroid?
Asanas such as Sarvangasana (shoulder stand), Halasana (plow pose), and Matsyasana (fish pose) are considered particularly helpful for thyroid health. Additionally, exercises such as Ustrasana (camel pose) and Setu Bandhasana (bridge pose) that involve gently stretching the neck and opening the throat may also be beneficial.
Is yoga good for thyroid patients?
Yoga can be beneficial for thyroid patients as it helps reduce stress levels, improve circulation and promote overall well-being.
Which pranayama is best for thyroid disease?
Pranayama can help manage thyroid issues by reducing stress and balancing the endocrine system. Some beneficial pranayama techniques for thyroid health include Ujjayi Pranayama, Kapalbhati Pranayama, and Bhramari Pranayama.
What foods control thyroid?
Foods rich in iodine and zinc can support thyroid health. Examples include seaweed, seafood, nuts, seeds, and dairy products. Additionally, foods rich in vitamins A and D, such as green leafy vegetables, carrots, eggs and fatty fish, are beneficial for thyroid function. However, it is essential to maintain a balanced diet and consult a health care professional for personalized advice.
Can Kapalbhati reduce thyroid?
Kapalabhati is a yogic breathing technique that is believed to have various health benefits, including potentially supporting thyroid function by reducing stress and promoting relaxation.
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