Cholesterol is a lipid found in the bloodstream that is often considered as harmful for the body. Contrary to this popular belief, cholesterol is highly essential for normal functioning and maintenance of the body. Cholesterol is required to build membranes and membrane fluids. It is also known to play an important role in the synthesis of Vitamin D and hormones such as progesterone, estrogen and testosterone.
Although it is good for the body, excess cholesterol can be harmful. Too much cholesterol in the bloodstream can cause blockage of arteries and eventually, heart related complications. To keep a check on its level, it is important to adopt a healthier lifestyle that includes healthy food habits and regular physical exercise.
Various studies suggest that yoga can help curb cholesterol naturally without any harmful side-effects on the body. Yoga is an ancient discipline that shapes up the body and calms the mind through yoga asanas, pranayamas and meditation. These yoga postures can help you bring your cholesterol level under control:
This pranayama increases the metabolic rate and reduces weight. It also stimulates the abdominal organs and improves digestive tract functioning.
The Wheel pose massages the abdominal organs and helps alleviate constipation. It also improves the functioning of the liver and thus helps get rid of excess fat and cholesterol.
The Locust pose stretches the belly and stimulates the abdominal organs. This pose too helps overcome constipation.
The Shoulder stand stimulates the abdominal organs and improves digestion.
This pose stimulates the liver and kidneys; reduces obesity and gets rid of excess fat from the abdominal region.
This pose massages the abdominal organs, stimulates the liver and helps in overcoming indigestion.
Cholesterol is created in the body from the food that we consume. Hence, it is essential to weed out the problem from the root. Junk food, deep-fried food and meat products are practically a storehouse of fats, and thus inevitably ? cholesterol. Consuming such fat-rich foods cause sluggishness, mood swings and obesity.
Ayurveda is an ancient branch of natural and holistic medicine that promotes health and wellness by balancing the diet and improving eating habits. Also, ayurvedic cooking is something that every food lover will enjoy as it will let them indulge in food that?s rich in sattwa and is healthy at the same time.
If you are diagnosed with high cholesterol level, remember that it?s not impossible to get out of the danger zone. Even minor lifestyle alterations can help bring things under control. However, it is important to stay focused on overcoming the problem and being regular with the yoga regime. Like any other practice, the results of practicing yoga will take time to manifest. Speaking to friends and family can be encouraging as they support you closely. Most importantly, stay positive about life. A happy state of mind can accomplish things more easily than a disturbed one.
Yoga is an alternate approach to restoring cholesterol level in the body and should not be taken as an alternative to medicine. It is highly recommended that you consult your doctor before giving up any current medication that you may be on.
