Women of reproductive age around the world commonly experience Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS).
Since it can cause hormonal imbalance and weight gain, it can disrupt one’s overall well-being.
People often look for various management methods, among which yoga for PCOS is one of the most popular options.
Although there are medicines for PCOS, some people prefer yoga due to its multiple benefits.
Yoga can not only improve a person’s hormonal balance but can also improve their mental health effectively.
This article will discuss the yoga poses for PCOS and its connection with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome.
Connection Between Yoga and PCOS
According to research, women who are experiencing PCOS symptoms can gain benefits from performing yoga.
Individuals with PCOS often experience insulin resistance and weight gain (due to metabolic problems).
Performing yoga can help improve insulin sensitivity and metabolism in women with PCOS.
One of the most common symptoms of PCOS is hormonal imbalance in women.
Another research states that yoga can improve a person’s hormonal balance and symptoms of the condition.
In some cases, individuals may experience Anxiety, Depression, and mood swings as symptoms of PCOS.
Yoga can also prove to be effective in improving a person’s condition in these cases.
Specific Poses of Yoga for PCOS
Source: pixelshotSince some people prefer natural treatments for POCS, several yoga poses have gained popularity due to their effectiveness.
A person may opt for yoga asanas and breathing exercises (Pranayama) as PCOS treatment.
Some women may experience PCOS due to stress and high Cortisol levels, in which cases, they practice meditation.
This section will discuss the above-mentioned yogas for PCOS in detail.
Yoga Asanas (Poses)
Certain yoga asanas or poses can produce promising results in reducing PCOS symptoms.
Poses like forward bending (Uttanasana), twisting (Ardha Matsyendrasana), and backward bending (Ardha Chakrasana) are yoga for losing weight due to PCOS.
These yoga poses for PCOS can help reduce fat in the abdominal area, like the PCOS belly.
Butterfly Pose (Baddha Konasana) and Cat-Cow Pose (Marjaryasana-Bitilasana) can improve blood circulation and hormonal balance.
The Bow Pose or Dhanurasana can effectively reduce menstrual discomfort and treat irregular periods in women with PCOS.
Breathing Exercises (Pranayama)
According to a study, stress is one of the major risk factors and causes of PCOS in women.
Pranayama, which is a breathing exercise, can be beneficial in these cases since it can effectively reduce stress.
It is also highly recommended for improving one’s hormonal balance and improving the symptoms.
Some of these other breathing techniques are as follows:
- Bhramari (Bee Breath)
- Nadi Shodhana (Alternate Nostril Breathing)
- Kapalabhati (Skull-Shining Breath)
Meditation and Mindfulness
Since PCOS can highly affect one’s mental health, it can also worsen one’s symptoms.
Practicing meditation and mindfulness can often provide emotional support for individuals with this condition.
Meditation techniques can help with relaxation and reduce stress hormone levels, indirectly improving one’s hormonal balance.
Conclusion
Since not every person is a fan of using medications, yoga for PCOS management has gained popularity.
Yoga asanas (poses) like forward bending, twisting, and backward bending can help with weight loss.
Some individuals may also try the Cat-Cow Pose and Butterfly Pose to improve hormonal balance and insulin sensitivity.
Breathing exercises like Pranayama, Bhramari, and Kapalabhati can further reduce stress and improve PCOS symptoms.
In some cases, combining these yoga asanas with meditation can prove to be effective.
However, it is always best to consult your doctor before starting to practice yoga for PCOS.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which medicines are effective alternatives for Yoga for PCOS?
Medications like birth control pills, anti-androgen medications, and Metformin are effective alternatives for yoga for PCOS. They can manage one’s hormonal balance, increase insulin sensitivity, and help in weight management with PCOS.
Can yoga reverse PCOS?
No, yoga cannot reverse PCOS. However, yoga can help in the effective management of several PCOS symptoms in women. They can also improve the overall well-being of an individual.
Which is better for PCOS, gym or yoga?
Both gym workouts and yoga offer benefits for PCOS. Gyms focus on aerobic and strength training, helping with weight management. Yoga supports stress reduction, hormonal balance, and flexibility in women.
However, the choice depends on individual preferences, and combining them can produce faster results.
What type of yoga is best for PCOS?
Gentle and restorative yoga styles, like Hatha and Yin, benefit PCOS. These focus on relaxation, deep breathing, and gentle poses, helping reduce stress and hormonal balance. However, it always depends on the individual’s preference.
Is hot yoga good for PCOS?
No, hot yoga is not good for women with PCOS. Hot yoga’s intense heat might not be ideal for PCOS due to potential dehydration and increased stress on the body.
It is always best to opt for gentler, non-heated yoga styles focusing on relaxation, stress reduction, and hormonal balance.
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