When the adrenal glands are damaged, they can't produce sufficient quantities of the vital hormones cortisol and aldosterone. This condition is known as Addison's disease, or primary adrenal insufficiency. This relatively rare disease saps energy, making it hard to exercise. Doing some simple yoga poses can help. Before beginning yoga, or or any other new exercise program, consult with your doctor if you have Addison's disease.
Functions of Adrenal Glands
The adrenal glands, which are situated above the kidneys, produce cortisol. This hormone affects most of the body's organs and tissues, and is responsible for maintaining cardiovascular function and blood pressure, slowing the inflammatory response in the immune system, regulating metabolism and maintaining proper glucose levels in the blood. The adrenal glands also produce aldosterone, which assists in maintaining the blood pressure and the balance between salt and water by helping the kidneys excrete potassium and retain sodium. A drop in aldosterone production leads to a drop in blood pressure and blood volume.
Help from Yoga
Common symptoms of adrenal failings are muscle weakness, chronic fatigue, decreased appetite and weight loss. When in this weakened state, it is hard to do much physical activity. If you practice yoga, you'll want to avoid unsupported back bends and the more strenuous standing postures, such as sun salutations and the warrior series, which can stimulate adrenal glands. Calming yoga is best. Find a dark, warm and quiet place to practice.
Suggested Poses
Quiet, restorative poses are best for adrenal strain. Corpse pose, the traditional ending pose in yoga class, consists of lying on your back with your arms a little bit away from your body, palms up, and your legs slightly separated. From here, close your eyes and breathe, focusing on melting away tension on every exhalation. Viparita karani, legs up the wall pose, is also relaxing. Get as close to a wall as possible, with your legs up and your hips supported on a folded blanket. A simple seated meditation with your legs crossed can also soothe the adrenal glands.
Other Exercise
With proper medication, many people with adrenal problems manage to participate in normal daily activities. Working closely with your endocrinologist, you may be able to incorporate active exercise like running, weight lifting and more vigorous yoga back into your life. Since people with Addison's disease have trouble retaining salt, you'll need to compensate for sweating with added sodium as well as by drinking lots of water. Avoid drinking Gatorade and similar sports drinks. While you need extra salt, people with Addison's disease should avoid consuming too much potassium.
Member Comments