Heart-opening yoga poses to prevent cholesterol and blockage – Times of India

Yoga for healthy heart

Yoga is known for its numerous health benefits, and it can be particularly beneficial for individuals dealing with high cholesterol levels and blocked blood vessels. Certain yoga poses can help improve cardiovascular health and promote the opening of the heart chakra. In this article, we’ll explore some simple and effective heart-opening yoga poses that can benefit those with these health concerns.

Yoga asanas to prevent heart blockages

Bridge Pose (Setu Bandhasana): Lie on your back with knees bent and feet hip-width apart. Lift your hips off the floor while keeping your feet and shoulders grounded. This pose stretches the chest and can help improve blood circulation.

Cobra Pose (Bhujangasana): Start by lying face down with your palms under your shoulders. Inhale as you lift your upper body off the ground, keeping your lower body and pelvis grounded. Cobra pose strengthens the back and opens up the chest.
Camel Pose (Ustrasana): Kneel with your knees hip-width apart and your hands on your lower back. Lean back, keeping your chest lifted and your hips aligned over your knees. Camel pose provides a deep stretch to the chest and abdomen.

Fish Pose (Matsyasana): Lie on your back with your legs extended and arms resting alongside your body. Lift your chest by placing your forearms and elbows on the floor. Fish pose expands the chest and helps with better breathing.
Warrior I (Virabhadrasana I): Stand with one foot forward and the other foot back, keeping your hips squared. Raise your arms overhead, with your palms facing each other. This pose opens up the chest and strengthens the upper body.

Bridge Pose (Dhanurasana): Lie on your stomach and bend your knees. Reach back and hold onto your ankles. Lift your chest and thighs off the ground, creating a bow-like shape. Bow pose is excellent for stretching the front of the body and increasing flexibility.
Child’s Pose (Balasana): Kneel on the floor and sit back on your heels. Extend your arms forward and rest your forehead on the ground. Child’s pose is a resting posture that can calm the mind and relax the chest.
When practicing these heart-opening yoga poses, it’s essential to focus on your breath. Deep, mindful breathing can enhance the benefits of these poses, promoting relaxation and stress reduction, which are also crucial for heart health.
Himalayan Siddhaa Akshar, yoga guru, founder, Akshar Yoga Kendraa says, “Before starting any new exercise routine, especially if you have underlying health conditions like high cholesterol or blocked blood vessels, it’s essential to consult with a healthcare professional or a qualified yoga instructor. They can provide guidance on the most suitable poses and ensure your practice is safe and effective.”

Consistency is key

Incorporating heart-opening yoga poses into your daily routine can be a valuable addition to your efforts in managing cholesterol levels and improving cardiovascular health. These poses not only open up the chest but also promote overall well-being, making them a beneficial practice for those with heart-related concerns.
Remember, consistency is key, and with regular practice, you may experience positive changes in your heart health and overall vitality. Start your journey to a healthier heart today with these accessible yoga poses.