Heart Health
Heart issues are the #1 cause of death in both men and women in the US. Unfortunately, it is still viewed as a Ôman’s disease’ by many people. Yoga is great for improving circulation and even lowering cholesterol. Here are a few poses to try and several to avoid if you have heart problems.
Big Toe Pose
Bound Angle
Bridge
Cat-Cow
Chair
Cobra
Dolphin
Dolphin Plank
AVOID
Boat
Headstands
Handstands
Shoulder stands
Too many lunges
Use your journal to come up with a list of poses you can do safely no matter which medical conditions or health goals you need to deal with.
High Blood Pressure
High blood pressure is a leading cause of stroke, which in turn is a leading cause of death or serious disability. High blood pressure can usually be alleviated with a low sodium diet and exercise. Yoga will generally help to relieve high blood pressure, but some poses are better than others for this health condition. It is also important to note which ones to avoid if you have high blood pressure:
DO:
Bridge
Corpse
Downward Dog
Legs up the wall
Rock pose
Sitting Forward Bend
AVOID:
Camel
Headstand
Pigeon (all versions)
Plow
Shoulder Stands
Headstands
Handstands
Journal about all you have learned to make a list of all the safest poses you can use depending on which medical conditions you are dealing with.
