Yoga offers valuable holistic practices for stroke patients, aiding in recovery and stroke prevention. It is recommended that individuals who have experienced a stroke or are at risk of one incorporate mindfulness-based exercises like Yoga into their routine. These exercises can help regulate cholesterol, blood sugar, and blood pressure – all key risk factors for stroke
To promote stroke recovery and prevention, Himalayan Siddhaa Akshar, Founder of Akshar Yoga Kendraa, recommends the following asanas and yoga exercises:
1. Vajrasana (Thunderbolt Pose):
Begin by standing straight with your arms at your sides. Slowly lower your knees onto your mat, leaning forward in the process. Place your pelvis on your heels and point your toes outward. Keep your heels close together and rest your palms on your knees with your hands facing up, maintaining an upright posture.
2. Sukhasana (Happy Pose):
Sit with your spine erect in Dandasana, placing your palms on your knees. Fold your left leg and tuck it inside your right thigh, then fold your right leg and tuck it inside your left thigh while keeping your back straight.
3. Dandasana (Staff Pose):
Sit upright and extend your legs in front of you, joining your legs and bringing your heels together. Keep your back straight and engage your pelvic, thigh, and calf muscles. Place your palms on the floor beside your hips to support your spine, and relax your shoulders.
4. Adomukhi Svanasana (Downward-Facing Dog):
Start in the Cat Pose, with your palms under your shoulders and your knees under your hips. Push your hips upward, straightening your knees and elbows, forming an inverted ‘A’ shape. Try to extend your heels all the way to the floor.
5. Vrikshasana (Tree Pose):
Begin in Samasthithi. Lift your left leg and place your foot on the inside of your raised thigh, supporting it with your palm to maintain its position. Join your palms and raise your hands overhead, then repeat the same with your other leg.
These yoga exercises can significantly contribute to stroke recovery and prevention. They acombine physical postures, controlled breathing, and meditation to promote holistic well-being. By integrating yoga into rehabilitation, individuals can enhance their motor function, balance, and overall quality of life, reducing the fear of falling and improving their ability to perform daily tasks. Alongside yoga, maintaining a balanced diet rich in potassium and magnesium, while avoiding trans fats and processed foods, can further aid in stroke prevention and recovery.