Ringing in the ears, a condition knows as tinnitus, affects one in five people, according to the Mayo Clinic. Yoga improves circulation throughout the body, and specific asanas, or poses, can bring relief to those with tinnitus. Because tinnitus is usually a symptom of an underlying condition, consult your doctor first.
Shoulder Stand
While laying on your back, hug your knees into your chest. Place the palms of your hands on your lower back and straighten your legs up toward the ceiling. Eventually work up to having your entire body in one line above the shoulders. Yoga props can make this pose more comfortable and it is best to practice this pose under the guidance of an experienced teacher.
Seated Forward Bend
According to principles of Ayurvedic medicine, ringing in the ears could be a sign of kidney or liver problems. Seated forward bend pose is beneficial to both the kidneys and liver. In a seated position, bring your legs out straight in front of you. Stretch your upper body up then stretch forward and reach for your toes, trying to keep your spine as straight as possible.
Viparita Karani
Viparita karani, or inverted pose, is good for ear ailments, according to yoga master, B.K.S. Iyengar. Start by lying on your back with your legs up a wall. Have a yoga bolster handy. Lift your tailbone up and place the bolster under your tailbone, then relax your tailbone onto the bolster. Stay in the pose for three to four minutes. Gently come out of the pose by removing the bolster first, then rolling to one side.
Supported Bridge Pose
Supported bridge pose, or Setubandha Sarvangasana, relieves ear problems and strengthens the liver, says Iyengar. Line up two yoga bolsters in a vertical position. Place your back and legs on the bolsters, allowing the back of your head and top of your shoulders to touch the floor. Hold the pose for three minutes and gently come out of the pose by rolling to one side.
References
- Ayurvedic Yoga Therapy; Mukunda Stiles; 2007
- Mayo Clinic: Tinnitus
- Yoga, The Path to Holistic Health: Yoga for Ailments; B.K.S. Iyengar; 2001
