Yoga for Thyroid and Graves Deceases

As a former figure skater, I dedicated countless hours to training from the young age of three. Growing up in Russia, where figure skating is a favored sport among girls, my routine included intense workouts and a relentless pursuit of perfection. However, the shock of experiencing severe health issues—such as trembling hands, a racing heart, and unexpected weight gain—led me to a diagnosis that would change my life: Graves' disease.

Understanding Graves' Disease

Despite the increased awareness of thyroid disorders, many remain unfamiliar with Graves' disease, a form of hyperthyroidism. My initial reaction upon receiving the diagnosis was disbelief. Named after the Irish physician Dr. Robert Graves, this autoimmune disorder occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks the thyroid, leading to an overproduction of thyroid hormones. According to Moore and Moore, “It is considered a disorder of hyper-immunity since immune system cells overreact and produce autoantibodies” (Moore, Elaine A., and Lisa Moore. Graves’ Disease: A Practical Guide. McFarland & Co., 2001). This condition affects approximately 3% of the U.S. population, but its symptoms and progression vary greatly from person to person, making it challenging to predict treatment outcomes.

The Search for Answers

When faced with illness, we often seek answers to the questions of “why” and “how.” While Western medicine provided insight into the mechanics of my condition, it failed to address the root causes. I knew that conventional treatments like medication and radiation would only alleviate symptoms temporarily. I was determined to find a path to healing that addressed my physical and emotional well-being.

Exploring Yoga Therapy

During my quest for understanding, I came across the profound teachings of yoga. Stanley Keleman’s work, “Our Body Speaks Our Mind,” resonated with me, as I realized that my body was signaling that it needed care in a different manner. I discovered yoga therapy, which emphasizes the connection between the mind and body. As Iyengar explains, “A very important aspect of yoga therapy teaches us to control the effects of the brain upon the body” (Iyengar, B. Yoga the Path to Holistic Health. London: Dorling Kindersley Limited, 2001). The thyroid gland, located in the neck, serves as a bridge between our thoughts and our voice. When this connection is disrupted, emotions can manifest physically, leading to imbalances.

Interestingly, yogic philosophy aligns with modern understandings of how the endocrine system influences emotional health. The connection between mental states and physical symptoms cannot be understated. Emotions such as anger, sadness, and anxiety can elevate heart rates and blood pressure, while yoga helps manage these emotional responses, reducing stress and inflammation.

Yoga as a Multi-Dimensional Approach

Unlike Western medicine, which often addresses specific symptoms, yoga offers a holistic approach to health. My mission now is to share my insights through yoga, focusing on those with thyroid disorders. Through my website, I aim to create personalized yoga practices that promote self-awareness and stress relief, which are crucial for managing thyroid conditions.

How Yoga Works

Yoga is often viewed as a supplementary fitness routine, but its primary objective is to cultivate tranquility in both body and mind. For individuals with thyroid disorders, re-establishing communication between thoughts and voice is vital. The cognitive and emotional aspects of our brains influence how we respond to stress. For instance, when practicing yoga, holding a posture encourages the cognitive brain to focus, while movements like bending forward during Sun Salutations trigger relaxation responses.

By enhancing the connection between mind and body, yoga can help regulate emotions and improve stress responses. Stress can significantly impact thyroid function, and chronic stress can exacerbate symptoms. Thus, while yoga may not be an instant cure, it equips practitioners with tools to manage stress and maintain emotional balance.

Key Yoga Practices for Thyroid Health

Here is a summary of yoga practices that can benefit individuals with thyroid disorders:

• Matsyasana (Fish Pose): Enhances blood circulation to the thyroid but should be approached with caution in cases of hyperthyroidism.
• Bridge Pose: Beneficial for both hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism, promoting relaxation and blood flow.
• Cat Stretch: Suitable for both conditions; encourages awareness of the throat area.
• Corpse Pose: A restorative pose that aids relaxation and stress relief.
• Plow Pose: Good for hypothyroidism, as it stimulates the thyroid gland.

Breathwork and Meditation

Pranayama, or breathwork, is an often-overlooked aspect of yoga that can significantly improve symptoms of thyroid disorders. Certain breathing techniques, such as Ujjayi (Ocean Breath), can help clear the throat and restore communication channels. Additionally, meditation provides a powerful tool for reducing stress and cultivating a state of well-being. While meditating, we can tap into a deep state of relaxation, releasing serotonin and melatonin, which are beneficial for those suffering from thyroid imbalances.

Conclusion

While it may take a lifetime to master the intricacies of yoga, it offers a wealth of tools for those with thyroid disorders. My journey with Graves' disease has taught me that continuous practice and self-awareness can lead to profound healing. I encourage anyone struggling with thyroid imbalances to explore yoga, listen to their bodies, and consider how these practices can transform their lives. Namaste.

References

1. Moore, Elaine A., and Lisa Moore. Graves’ Disease: A Practical Guide. McFarland & Co., 2001.

2. Iyengar, B. Yoga the Path to Holistic Health. London: Dorling Kindersley Limited, 2001.

3. Vishnudervananda, Swami. The Complete Illustrated Book of Yoga. Three Rivers Press (CA), 1995.