6 Yoga Contraindications You Need to Know
Yoga has now become very popular all over the world. Because of its physical, mental, and spiritual benefits, it has become a hit for people of all gender and age group.
Yoga mainly consists of various Asanas that give flexibility and strengthen the muscles of the body. It helps in reducing stress, provides better relaxation, and aids in detoxifying the body. Overall, it can bring balance to your body.
Although beneficial to the body, yoga isn’t really for everyone. If not done properly, it can put you at risk of injuries in the neck, back, and shoulders. It can also cause torn muscles and herniated disks.
If you want to make sure that the exercise is for you, here are the most common yoga contraindications you need to know.
Heart problems
Though yoga is not a vigorous exercise, there are specific asanas that may not be suitable for a heart patient.
If you have been diagnosed with a heart condition or if you feel pain in the heart while doing normal physical activities, it is best to consult your doctor first before enrolling in a class. He is the best person to decide whether yoga is for you or not.
See Also: 10 Habits That Can Prevent Heart Disease
Imbalance in the ear fluid
There are people who lose their balance without any reason. Some even lose their consciousness with position changes. If you have experienced any of those things, it’s best to get your ear checked.
An imbalance in the fluid in your ears can affect your stability. This won’t only make it hard for you to complete the poses but it can also put your safety at risk.
Fracture
If you have suffered a hip, knee or back fracture as a result of a fall, then it is better to consult a doctor. Some asanas can worsen your pain and aggressively hurt you. Similarly, a person with a spinal problem should not perform yoga without consulting a doctor, too.
If your doctor allowed you to practice yoga, consider enrolling in a class and getting the help of a professional yoga teacher. He or she can help you learn the best poses that won’t compromise your bones and body.
Unsteady blood pressure and sugar level
If your blood pressure is unsteady or if your blood sugar level fluctuates drastically, then it is best to consult a doctor before starting a yoga session. Certain inversion poses and forceful breathing can increase your blood pressure and cause problems.
Glaucoma
If you are pre-diagnosed with glaucoma, avoid inversion poses, like the headstand and shoulder stand. Such poses can worsen your condition as they can cause the pressure in your eyes to increase.
Infectious diseases
Certain asanas that are physically demanding and which involve deep breathing and retention can be harmful to you if you have an infectious disease. Before you get started with yoga, consider getting treated first.
In practice, most people do not consult a doctor prior to yoga practice. In fact, it is not mandatory for all to see a doctor.
However, if you fit in one of the following criteria, make sure to visit your physician first:
- If you are a male and above 45 years of age or a female above 55 years of age
- If you have a family history of heart ailment
- If you are currently a smoker or quit smoking within the past six months
- If you have high blood pressure
- If you have cholesterol
- If you have diabetes or have a family history of diabetes
- If you are obese and lead a sedentary lifestyle
- If you are pregnant or given birth within the past 3 months
Thus, in a nutshell, yoga is good as far as it is done in moderation and under the supervision of a trained practitioner. Listen to your body at all times. If you feel that the stretching and pulling are too much for you, stop immediately. If you already have any medical condition like back pain, you should inform the instructors beforehand so that they can modify the poses for you.
See Also: Yoga and Health: From Better Mental Health To Improved Sleep Quality
