Which yoga helps lower cholesterol? - #12481
I am really trying to get my cholesterol under control and have heard that yoga can help with that. For the last few months, I’ve been feeling super stressed and it feels like my bad cholesterol just skyrocketed. I finally got my tests back last week and my doctor was not pleased with the numbers. Lately, I’ve been thinking about combining some gentle exercise with relaxation. I start researching and came across a bunch of options but got totally lost in the details. Which yoga helps lower cholesterol? I mean, there’s so many styles out there! Should I focus on something gentle like Hatha or maybe something more intense, like Vinyasa? Also, I’ve read conflicting things about how often I should practice. Should it be daily or just a few times a week? I'm also worried about finding classes that fit into my busy schedule. Just this morning, my friend mentioned a specific type of breathing technique in yoga that could help too, but I'm not sure what she meant. Anyone had success with yoga and cholesterol? Which yoga helps lower cholesterol, like, specific poses or routines that really work? I guess I'm just kinda desperate and looking for any advice.
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Doctors’ responses
Yoga can indeed be a helpful part of managing cholesterol levels, particularly when combined with a balanced diet and regular physical activity. When it comes to choosing a yoga style, both Hatha and Vinyasa could be beneficial, though they serve slightly different purposes. Hatha yoga, being more gentle and focused on basic postures and techniques, can be excellent for reducing stress—a known factor in cholesterol elevation. This reduction in stress can indirectly help to manage cholesterol levels. On the other hand, Vinyasa is more intense and involves a series of poses that flow smoothly from one to another. This can contribute more directly to physical fitness, which is crucial in managing cholesterol levels.
As for frequency, practicing yoga at least three times a week can be beneficial in making a noticeable impact, although daily practice can have even more pronounced effects on stress reduction and cardiovascular health. It can be especially beneficial to find shorter-duration classes or online videos that can be fit into a busy schedule.
Regarding specific breathing techniques, your friend might be referring to Pranayama—breathing exercises that can enhance oxygenation and relaxation, thereby potentially impacting heart health and reducing stress-related spikes in cholesterol. Techniques such as ‘Anulom Vilom’ (alternate nostril breathing) are often suggested for stress reduction. Incorporating these elements into your routine could gradually help you manage cholesterol levels, but it’s always important to continue medical advice and any prescribed medication for managing cholesterol.
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