According to the American Thyroid Association, there is no cure for hypothyroidism, which is characterized by an underactive thyroid gland that does not produce enough thyroid hormone. However, hypothyroidism can be managed and controlled, the association says. Hypothyroidism is sometimes accompanied by symptoms of fatigue, depression and dry skin, although symptoms vary. Yoga is one practice that might be able to improve symptoms of this condition. See your doctor to determine if you have hypothyroidism and if yoga is a plausible method to alleviate symptoms.
Types
Certain types of yoga poses are thought to stimulate the thyroid gland so it can create more thyroid hormone, although more research is needed to back up this claim. Some backbends are recommended for the thyroid as they open the chest and neck which might help thyroid hormone flow. Inversions, where you lift your body over your head, help blood flow to the neck, which is thought to stimulate the thyroid.
Poses
Specific poses in each yoga category are suggested for their proposed benefit to the thyroid. Specific backbends that are thought to improve thyroid function are Bridge pose, King Pigeon pose and Upward Facing Two-Foot Staff Pose. Some inversions to try are Plow pose and Supported Shoulderstand. Full Boat pose is a seated pose that is recommended for the thyroid. Consult a certified yoga instructor to learn the proper way to perform these poses.
Symptoms
Yoga might be able to relieve many of the specific symptoms of hypothyroidism. Many people with this condition experience feeling tired and slow. Restorative yoga and energizing yoga poses might help you feel restored and refreshed. Hypothyroidism can cause aches, pains and stiffness in your muscles and joints. Yoga poses involve numerous stretching positions, working with your body at your own level, which might loosen muscles and improve flexibility. Hypothyroidism can also lead to weight gain. Although Yoga is not known for burning calories, with exceptions such as Hot and Power yoga, all yoga builds muscle, burns some calories and relieves stress which can be a cause of weight gain. Consult your doctor to determine the best methods of dealing with your symptoms.
Chakras
Yoga is based on some Eastern beliefs that are sometimes alternative to Western medicine. One of these is the belief in chakras, which are thought to be energy centers of the body. Chakra promoters believe that the chakras can become blocked, leading to physical and mental health problems. In the case of the thyroid, it is believed that the communication, or fifth, chakra controls the thyroid and needs to work properly to keep the gland balanced. Some of the same poses thought to open and stimulate the thyroid gland are believed to help this chakra work properly. These include Bridge and King Pigeon poses.
