Strengthen Your Kidneys with Yoga

The kidneys play the extremely important function of purifying our blood by filtering the waste from it. They also help in regulating the urinary system, secretion of hormones and maintenance of blood pressure level in the body. Kidneys also have the additional function of maintaining the level of acid and bases in the body. Clearly, the kidneys are one of the most vital organs in the body.

Studies suggest that kidney related diseases or conditions are more likely to be observed in developing nations where insufficient nutrition, stress and unhealthy lifestyle contribute to renal deterioration. According to WHO research, close to a million lives are lost globally every year due to kidney and urinary-tract related complications. High blood pressure and diabetes are known to worsen the condition.

With the help of modern medicine and advanced medical equipment, doctors have been able to curb the damage caused to kidneys. However, these methods may not always be economical or may even lead to unforeseen complications. It is at times like these that one must turn towards side-effect free, natural remedies.

Yoga is one such ancient branch of holistic living that promotes healthy lifestyle through yoga poses, meditation and Ayurveda. Yoga poses stimulate and massage various organs that help bring the body in an optimal condition. Along with yoga poses, turning to an Ayurvedic diet can keep the blood pressure levels and diabetes in check.

Start off with these simple yoga poses to ensure the health of your kidneys:

Salamba Bhujangasana (Sphinx pose)

The Sphinx pose stretches and strengthens the abdominal organs. It also raises the immunity level of the body.

Ardha Matsyendrasana (Sitting Half Spinal twist)

The Sitting Half Spinal twist stimulates the kidneys and liver. It also improves the body's immunity level.

Bhujangasana (Cobra pose)

The Cobra pose also stimulates the abdominal organs and relieves the body of stress and fatigue. It is also known to help improve immunity.

Paschimottanasana (Seated forward bend)

The Seated forward bend is another kidney stimulating pose that also improves digestion and relieves you of menstrual discomfort.

Setu Bandhasana (Bridge pose)

The Bridge pose stimulates the abdominal organs, including the kidneys. It also helps bring high blood pressure under control and relieves the body of stress.

Naukasana (Boat pose)

The Boat pose strengthens and stimulates the abdominal organs. It also helps improve digestion and alleviates stress.

Important Tips

Ensure that you eat home cooked foods and stay away from outside food. Include more fruits and green leafy vegetables in your platter. Keep away from foods with high-potassium content and include more iron-rich food in your diet. An ayurvedic diet is rich in nutrients and is highly recommended. Drink plenty of water and get 6-8 hours of sleep every night.

Yoga has been around for more than two millennia and has helped people the world over overcome medical conditions the natural way. While it is a very effective method of keeping your kidneys healthy, yoga should not be used as a substitute for any medications that your doctor might have prescribed.

Practice yoga and meditation regularly, eat healthy and rest well to keep your body stress-free. A stress-free body responds more positively to any therapy than a stressed one. More importantly, stay positive and enjoy life to the fullest.

Yoga practice helps develop the body and mind with a lot of health benefits, yet is not a substitute for medicine. It is important to learn and practice yoga postures under the supervision of a trained yoga teacher. In case of any medical condition, practice yoga postures after consulting a doctor and a qualified Yoga teacher

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