Diabetes is a challenging disease for the world to overcome. Its prevalence has been increasing rapidly worldwide, especially, in low- and middle-income countries like India. According to a WHO study done in 2015, 8.7% of Indian population are living with diabetes. It means 69.2 million Indian people have diabetes and in more than 36 million people it remained undiagnosed.
It is important to control diabetes because it gives rise to many consequences. Over the course of time; diabetes can damage the heart, blood vessels, eyes, kidneys, and nerves. That’s why it causes blindness, kidney failure, heart attacks, stroke and lower limb amputation. Adults with diabetes have a 2-3 fold increased risk of heart attacks and strokes.
Once a person is affected with diabetes it can only be controlled and not cured. Yoga can play a vital role in preventing diabetes. Simple lifestyle measures can help a lot in controlling diabetes. In India many institutes have studied how yoga can be useful in the management of diabetes. Some scholars are trying to study which yoga asanas and Pranayama can be more useful in managing diabetes. The efficacies of Pachimottanasana, Ardhamatsyendrasana, Vajrasana are being tested. Also, scholars are trying to figure out how Anuloma Viloma, Bhastrika, Bhramari, Uddiyana Bandh, Kapaalbhatti, Tratakka, Shavasana can be useful for keeping diabetes in check.
Dr Sangeeta Patel, Research Scholar M.D. 2nd year in R.A.Podar Medical College, Mumbai is currently studying the role of Yogabhayas in the management of type 2 diabetes. “Diabetes is spreading rapidly in the world. WHO also has highlighted the threat of diabetes to India. In such scenario yoga, which is part of our heritage can be useful. Several books and previous studies make mention of the usefulness of yoga in the treatment of certain diseases and preservation of health in normal individuals. Apart from its spiritual philosophy yoga has been utilized as a therapeutic tool to achieve positive health and cure disease,” Dr Sangeeta said.
Yoga asanas which have an effect on diabetes
Pachimottanasana
It stretches lower back, hamstrings and hips. It also massages and tones the abdominal and pelvic organs and shoulders.
Ardhamatsyendrasana
It makes spine supple and increases the elasticity of the spine. It also increases the oxygen supply to the lungs.
Vajrasana
It improves blood circulation in body and hence increases the efficiency of digestive system. It is helpful in easing lower back pain.
Bhastrika
Improves blood circulation and reduces cough. It is also, Very helpful in improving concentration.
Bhramari
It reduces stress and anxiety. It is important to practice regularly Anulom Viloma to experience its benefits.