Close your eyes, take a deep breath and feel the air fill your lungs. With each mindful breath, the body awakens to a deeper understanding of its inner workings. If just a breath could bring in such composure, consider its effects in today's fast-paced, dynamic and stress-intensive lives. For managing diabetes, this profound connection is further exacerbated into becoming a lifeline—an invitation to explore the extraordinary potential of mindful breathing and yoga in reshaping their journey.
Already deemed as the Diabetics capital of the world, India showcased an overall weighted prevalence of 11.4% struggling with this chronic metabolic disease. In light of this scenario, it is imperative for people to turn to a comprehensive and multifaceted approach to mitigate diabetes. However, one must not look further, for the fabled land of seers and yogis has presented us with the panacea for managing diabetes - mindful breathing.
In an interaction with OnlyMyHealth, Dr. Navneet Agrawal, Chief Clinical Officer, BeatO, talked about the health benefits of pranayama.
Health Benefits Of Pranayama
From Pranayams to Brahmaris, by facilitating relaxation, stress reduction, and improved insulin sensitivity, these practices offer a plethora of holistic and empowering approaches to diabetes management.
Stress Reduction
In the stress-intensive lives of the 21st century, stress exerts an extensive influence on our physiology, often triggering undesirable fluctuations in blood glucose levels. With breathing techniques like deep belly breathing or kapalbhati, one can activate the body's relaxation response, mitigating stress and fostering stable glucose levels.
Also read: Roshni Chopra’s Inspiring Face Yoga Exercise For Sculpted Cheekbones
Enhanced Insulin Sensitivity
Insulin sensitivity, a crucial aspect of glycemic control, refers to the body's capacity to utilise insulin for blood sugar regulation effectively. Consistent and mindful breathing techniques can enhance glycemic control, making cells more receptive to insulin action and muscle glucose uptake. Regularly practising these techniques optimises insulin function, consequently contributing to improved glycemic control.
Physical Activity and Weight Management
Yogic kriyas and breathing exercises also serve as a gentle form of exercise encompassing movements, stretching, and controlled breathing without exerting yourself. Consistently sticking to such a routine will facilitate a healthy metabolism, thereby leading to weight management and reduced insulin resistance.
Also read: International Yoga Day 2023: 5 Yoga Asanas To Combat Sedentary Lifestyle
While other dietary and pathological approaches also need to be administered simultaneously, the power of mindful breathing is irrefutable. As one embarks on a journey through the remarkable connection between conscious breathing and diabetes control, it becomes evident that our breath holds the power to transform our lives. Just as the ancient practices of Yoga and Ayurveda have guided individuals to a land of profound healing and self-discovery, so too can they guide India on the path to effectively managing diabetes.
