The Thyroid Gland
The butterfly-shaped Thyroid gland is located at the base of the frontal neck/throat. The Vishuddha Chakra is located at the throat, and it is associated and closely connected with the thyroid gland.
It is a hormone gland that regulates many bodily functions by constantly releasing the thyroid hormone into the blood. The proper functioning of nearly the entire body depends on the proper functioning of the thyroid gland. For example, it regulates growth, consumption of fat, heart rate, body temperature, and much more.
In hyperthyroid, the thyroid gland is overactive and produces too much hormone. In hypothyroidism, the opposite is the case.
* While yoga is generally safe in healthy people, you should consult your doctor.
Yoga Therapy for Thyroid Health & Wellness
If you are one of 5 out of 100 Americans that are living with some form of hypothyroidism/hyperthyroidism, you already know that the condition is usually treated by taking daily hormone replacement tablets called levothyroxine. Levothyroxine replaces the thyroxine hormone, which your thyroid does not make enough of.
Ayurveda Treatment for Thyroid
Ayurveda can assist in healing the body from the effects of thyroid imbalance by including the following in your daily diet because they increase iodine levels in the body.
- Jalkumbhi
- Drumstick from chicken.
Coriander helps with swelling which is sometimes seen with thyroid problems. Ginger also aids in thyroid function. Boil some ginger in water and drink it like tea.
Foods to avoid are raw vegetables, especially cauliflower, kale, and brussels sprouts. Add Vitamin A rich foods such as spinach and dark leafy greens, bananas, and apples. Stay away from natural and artificial sweeteners & foods/drinks that have natural sugars.
Early morning sun exposure helps replenish the Vitamin D deficiency. Talking a walk or doing some form of physical activity not only stimulates the thyroid gland and boosts immunity but also regulates calcium metabolism.
Physical Practice of Yoga – Asana
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Pranayama
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Meditation
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The Endocrine System Negative Feedback Loop
The hypothalamus and the pituitary gland stimulate the thyroid gland to release thyroid hormones: triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4). These hormones travel through the body and its level is sensed so that when their concentration is adequate, the hypothalamus and the pituitary gland stop stimulating its secretion.
Having this regulation in which the control is kept by inhibiting the secretion of hormones when they are at an adequate level is what is called a negative feedback loop.
Asana Poses for Hyperthyroidism
Backward bending & inversion poses are the best to support, stimulate & self-regulate the thyroid gland. Additionally, neck rolling poses are extremely beneficial. Kundalini breathing and asana sequences are also suggested. (See below)
- Bhujangasana (Cobra Pose)
- Ustrasana (Camel Pose)
- Marjaryasana (Cat/Cow Sequence)
- Simhasana (Lion Pose – See picture)
- Halasana (Plough Pose)
- Sarvangasana (Shoulder Stand)
Asana & Pranayama for Hypothyroidism
Sun Salutations work on the throat and neck region, promotes a healthy metabolic function by stimulating the thyroid & adrenal gland for the uptake of thyroid hormones by the cells of the body. Pranayama helps regulate hormones and prana in the body.
- Surya Namaskar (Sun Salutations)
- Bhastrika Breath (Bellows Breath)
- Kapal Bhati (Skull Shining Breathing)
- Nadi Shodhana (Alternate Nostril Breathing)
Easing Symptoms & Improve Functionality of Thyroid Gland
Bowel Issues
Hypothyroidism. Alternate placing a hot water bag on your throat and gut to stimulate the thyroid gland and then the large intestine. Try to keep your body warm.
Hyperthyroidism. Alternate placing a cold water bag on your throat and gut to both reduce swelling of the thyroid gland and reduce over function of the gut. Try to keep your body cool – try taking a cool shower or bath.
Foods to Avoid
Soy has been linked to autoimmune thyroid conditions. It contains phytoestrogens and goitrogens, which can interfere with the production of thyroid hormones. Refined carbohydrates, such as white bread, pasta, and sugary snacks, cause a rapid spike in blood glucose and insulin levels.
Nightshade vegetables, including tomatoes, peppers, eggplants, and potatoes, contain alkaloids that may cause reactions in some individuals with thyroid issues.
Others. Nuts, seeds, and eggs.
Reduce Inflammation
Add to your purified water: celery, lemon, and cucumber. Celery is a great source of several nutrients and antioxidants that reduce inflammation. Cucumber nourishes the kidneys and the lymphatic system to flush health-sapping toxins and detoxify the thyroid gland. Lemon is a powerful antioxidant that may help to flush toxins from your body, helps you release excess water (diuretic), and boosts your immune system.
Healing Meditation
There is so much power to heal in meditation. Take at least 5 minutes a day to practice this simple healing meditation. Start with the 4-7-8 breathing technique x3. On your inhalation, imagine breathing in a healing blue-colored light and directing that light to your neck/thyroid. As you hold your breath on the 7, set the intention of healing your thyroid gland, on the exhale – release any blockages to your thyroid.
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