Yoga for Endocrine Health

June 2011

Our bodies are made up of several systems that enable us to function well as physical beings. We are complex creatures, and basic understandings of what these systems do enable us to offer them optimum support. Some of these systems include the immune, circulatory, eliminative, digestive, nervous and endocrine. The nervous and endocrine systems are similar in that they are the main communication correspondents that tell our body how to function, the latter working for more long-term bodily functions. Here, we focus on the endocrine system, the overall role of each gland in it and some yoga asanas that support them.

Endocrine glands are uniformly responsible for regulating cycles of growth, reproductivity and metabolic functions among other vital activities necessary for health. Each gland distributes specific hormones into the bloodstream which are then carried to organs and received by the matching receptor site in cell membranes so that appropriate communication and activity can occur. We have all probably experienced either personally or through someone close to us, how wacky we can feel if hormones are out of balance. In a world where we are bombarded with endocrine disruptors, it is essential to offer extra support to these glands if we want to feel good and live well.

Within the practice of Yoga, there is the acknowledgment and activation of the chakras, or energy centers, where our consciousness resides. The chakras are associated with endocrine glands as well as groups of nerves called plexus in the nervous system, that link our physical and emotional selves. I mention the chakra names with the glands in hopes to bring awareness to the interconnectedness of our holy trinity- the body/mind/spirit- while inspiring you to further explore their purpose.

Beginning with our base chakra, known as Muladhara (root), the Adrenals are associated. This gland produces adrenaline in response to stress/excitement as well as other hormones necessary for fluid and electrolyte (salt) balance in the body. Adho Mukha Svanasana, or downward-facing dog, is an excellent pose for keeping the adrenals balanced as it removes fatigue and exhaustion and builds stamina in the core.

In the second chakra, Svadhisthana (sacral), reside the Gonads, which, depending upon your sex, will either be testes or ovaries. Proper development and functioning of urinary and reproductive organs are directed by the gonad glands. Baddha Konasana, also known as cobbler's pose or butterfly, is recommended because of its ability to increase the blood supply in the pelvic region, relieve heaviness in the testicles, regulate menstruation, support healthy ovary function and prevent urinary tract infections.

The third chakra, Manipura (solar plexus), holds the essence of the Pancreas gland's purpose, which, in short, is to regulate blood sugar levels. The pancreas can be supported well by practicing Dhanurasana, or bow pose, because it massages this internal digestive organ and gland, keeping its elasticity and strength. This pose is a preventative measure for diabetes.

The Thymus gland, housed in the energy center of the heart chakra called Anahata, is located in front of the heart and behind the sternum. The thymus produces T-cells that are warriors in keeping infections at bay, as well as guides these T-cells to tolerate certain organisms so we do not develop auto-immune disorders. In Virabhadrasana I, warrior pose, the chest fully expands, the waistline is trimmed, the blood starts pumping rapidly, immunity is boosted, circulation increases- all of which take stress off the heart by opening and strengthening this vital organ that is interwoven so deeply with the thymus.

In our neck and throat area, Vissuda chakra, lies the Thyroid gland and it namely regulates metabolic activity that maintains our energy levels, body temperature and weight. Salamba Sarvangasana, or shoulder stand, is on of the most beneficial poses in yoga. By defying gravity, blood is allowed to freely circulate all around the neck region, bringing life-giving, fresh oxygen to the thyroid gland especially. Beneficial pressure is also put upon the thyroid in this pose, giving it a massage.

Our third eye, the sixth chakra Ajna, has within its scope the Pituitary gland. The pituitary is said to be the hormone harmonizer because it is the master that feeds hormonal support to the glands of the endocrine system so that they will be able to make their own unique hormones. Meditation, or being still and silent with the mind concentrating upon Divine, relieves stress and allows for the pituitary to be and do as it was designed.

The seventh chakra, Sahasrara (crown), relates to the Pineal gland that is responsible for producing melatonin, the sleeping hormone, as well as other hormones that enable us to rest and rejuvinate, and it is directly affected by light exposure. Sirsasana, headstand, activates this gland by increasing circulation to the eyes and brain and the baroreceptors in the neck. As a result, nervous impulses are reduced which calms the mind and allows for deep sleep. Sleeping well makes everything function all the better. Doing headstand pose outdoors brings in the needed sunshine for pineal health, too.

The wisdom of the body in finding homeostasis in an ever-changing world is reflected in a healthy operating endocrine system, and Yoga is one powerful way we can insure that flow. Try the poses out yourself- your practice is the key here.

Blessed be!

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