5 Yoga Asanas That Diabetics Must Practise Every Day For Better Health

Yoga asanas can help manage diabetes and balance blood sugar levels.

Yoga for diabetes: While it is important to practise yoga every day, regardless of your health condition, diabetics should definitely do some asanas on an everyday basis for the sake of their health, and to prevent the condition from worsening. Diabetes is a debilitating metabolic disorder where the body cannot regulate its blood sugar levels. It happens when the pancreas is unable to produce enough insulin (type 1), or when the cells become resistant to insulin (type 2). Sometimes, hormonal imbalance during pregnancy can cause gestational diabetes. The causes of diabetes could include genetics, obesity, physical inactivity, and unhealthy diet. Diabetics must practise yoga on a daily basis to stay in top shape.

According to celebrity yoga and holistic wellness expert Anshuka Parwani, yoga asanas can help manage diabetes and balance blood sugar levels naturally. "Practising regularly helps [to] improve blood sugar levels, which improves insulin sensitivity, reduces stress, and maintains cortisol levels," she stated.

Parwani demonstrated some yoga asanas in a video that she posted on Instagram, suggesting that diabetics must balance their diet, daily movement, and sleep to stay healthy. Take a look.

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Mandukasana Or Frog Pose

The first asana that diabetics need to practise is Mandukasana or Frog Pose. It is a seated yoga pose that strengthens the back muscles, improves posture, and stretches the chest and shoulders. Sit with legs folded, feet together, and hands grabbing ankles or thighs. Lean forward, keeping the back straight, and hold for 30 seconds to 1 minute, breathing deeply, as demonstrated in the video.

Ustrasana Or Camel Pose

Ustrasana, or Camel Pose is a kneeling yoga pose that stretches the chest, shoulders, and upper back. Kneel with hands on heels. Bend your body backwards to arch your back and reach for the heels. Keep the neck long, shoulders down, and hold for 30 seconds to 1 minute, breathing deeply.

Ardha Matsyendrasana Or Half Fish Pose

Ardha Matsyendrasana, or Half Fish Pose is a seated yoga twist that stimulates the spine, torso, and organs. Sit with legs crossed, twist torso to one side, and place hand on knee. Keep hips facing forward, shoulders relaxed, and hold for 30 seconds to 1 minute, breathing deeply. Repeat on the other side.

Makarasana Or Crocodile Pose

Makrasana, or Crocodile Pose strengthens the back muscles, improves posture, and relaxes the nervous system. Lie on your stomach with arms under shoulders, lift chest and head, and curve neck. Hold for 30 seconds to 1 minute, breathing deeply, and release slowly.

Bhujangasana Or Cobra Pose

Bhujangasana, or Cobra Pose strengthens the back muscles, opens the chest, and improves flexibility. Lie on your stomach with hands under shoulders, inhale and press palms into the ground, lifting chest and head off the mat. Hold for 30 seconds, breathing deeply.