Addison's disease is a potentially life-threatening hormonal disorder that results when your adrenal glands produce insufficient amounts of the hormones cortisol and aldosterone. The disease causes symptoms that become progressively worse over time, including muscle weakness, fatigue, low blood pressure, low blood sugar, fainting spells and excessive amounts of stress. Yoga may help you manage or alleviate some of the symptoms. Consult your doctor before beginning a yoga program.
Child's Pose
It's difficult to perform strenuous movements when you're suffering from the symptoms of Addison's disease, yet it's important to maintain a certain level of physical activity to prevent muscle atrophy and weakness and maintain flexibility. Restorative yoga poses can help by gently stretching your body and promoting feelings of relaxation.
One beneficial pose to try is child's pose. Start on your hands and knees and slowly lower your buttocks to rest on your heels. Bend forward, bringing your forehead to the floor. Place your hands beside your body, next to your heels, or stretch them out on the floor above your head. Stay in this pose for five minutes.
Supported Sukhasana
This seated forward bend can help treat adrenal exhaustion and relieve feelings of fatigue while gently stretching the back of your body. Sit in a cross-legged position with a folded blanket or pillow under your buttocks for support. Slowly bend forward, reaching out in front of you with your fingertips. Allow the fold to come from your hip and pelvic area, not from a rounding motion with your spine. Bend as far as you comfortably are able and hold the pose for 30 seconds.
Modified Legs-up-the-Wall Stand
The modified legs-up-the-wall stand is restorative and calming to the brain and helps alleviate feelings of fatigue and exhaustion. Sit next to the edge of a wall and have a folded blanket or bolster nearby. Lie on your back and swing your legs around to rest your heels on the wall. Place the folded blanket or bolster under your pelvis for support. Keep your knees bent. Rest your arms by your sides and close your eyes.
Savasana
Savasana is a resting pose that helps align your spine, relieve stress, promote feelings of calm and slow your heart rate. Lie on your back, a yoga mat or a blanket. Place a small pillow under your head for support. Rest your arms comfortably on the floor beside your body, palms open and facing upward. Stretch your legs out straight, then allow them to relax and fall away from your body. Close your eyes and observe your breath. Focus on taking long, slow exhalations after each inhalation. Stay in this pose for up to 30 minutes.
