Yoga for MS
How Yoga Can Help Manage Multiple Sclerosis Symptoms
Research tells us we can manage our symptoms of MS through exercise which may improve our balance, mobility, mood, and strength. Yoga offers gentle stretches and relaxation elements. Most of all, yoga can enhance your overall well-being.
Here are some important function and traits of MS that yoga may help improve:
· Bladder Function
· Fatigue
· Lung Capacity
· Mobility
· Mood
· Strength
· Stress
Top 5 yoga poses for people who have MS:
For standing poses, have a chair or some kind of support so you won’t fall.
Mountain Pose – Stand tall with your feet together or slightly apart for balance. You can soften your knees for comfort. Be sure your feet connect to the ground. Put your arms at your side, or raise them to the sky, or place them in prayer pose. Now breathe. Benefit - This pose improves balance, posture, and body awareness.
Sphinx Pose – Lie on your stomach with your legs stretched towards the back and your feet hip-width apart. Your elbows should be resting on your mat pressing to the ground. Allow your shoulder back and away from your neck. Lift your chest and gently contract your abs. Make sure your chin is parallel to the ground. Now breath in and out through your nose. Hold your breath, like Ocean Breath. Hold this pose for 5-10 breaths and then release by slowly bringing yourself down to the mat. Benefits – This pose helps with fatigue and soothes your nervous system. It can also strengthen your spine.
Warrior II Pose – Stand on your mat with your weight balance. Your arms are relaxed at your side with your palms facing forward. Start by extending your right leg behind you and turn your right foot parallel with the front and back of your mat. Widen your stance so you can see your left foot extended in front of you. Your toes should be facing towards the front of your mat. With your legs extended, bend your left leg at 90 degrees. Raise your arms parallel to the mat at your side with your palms facing down and lengthen your spine. Look forward towards the top of your mat keeping your chin parallel to your mat. Hold this pose for 4-5 breaths. Release and repeat the other side. Benefits – This pose strengthens your arms, back, core, legs, and opens your chest and hamstrings. It is also meant to energize your mind and body and increase concentration.
Happy Baby Pose – Lie flat on your back on your mat. Bend your knees up towards your chest at a 90-degree angle. The soles of your feet should face the sky. Reach forward and grab the outside or inside of your feet spreading your knees apart towards your armpits. Now rock from side-to-side and remember to breathe. Benefits – This pose is a gentle pose that is meant to increase relaxation and stretch your body. It may improve fatigue and lower your heart rate.
Corpse Pose – Lie down on your mat on your back with your feet about 6-12 inches apart. You may use blocks under your knees or a blanket. Place your arms to your side or on your chest, or your belly. Close your eyes. Inhale deep through your nose and exhale through your mouth. Relax all your muscles in your body and face. Hold this pose for as long as you like. Benefits - This pose is beneficial as it can assist with mindful meditation, reduce stress, and assist with relaxation.
Namaste and remember… WE are Limitless
