Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a chronic autoimmune disease that affects the central nervous system (CNS), which includes the brain, spinal cord, and optic nerves., leading to a range of neurological symptoms.
Recent studies suggest a global increase in MS diagnoses, particularly in developed countries. Some estimates show that the global prevalence of MS has nearly doubled over the last several decades. Yoga can be highly beneficial for individuals with Multiple Sclerosis (MS), as it helps manage symptoms, improve mobility, and enhance overall well-being.
Here are 8 key benefits of practicing yoga for MS:
Improved Flexibility: People with MS often experience muscle stiffness, tightness, and spasms. Yoga incorporates gentle stretching and lengthening of muscles through various poses (asanas), which improves overall flexibility. Regular stretching helps reduce the tightness in muscles and joints, making daily movements like bending, reaching, or walking easier and more fluid. This also promotes better posture, preventing secondary problems like back pain.
Enhanced Balance and Coordination: MS can impair balance due to muscle weakness and nerve damage, increasing the risk of falls. Yoga poses like Tree Pose (Vrikshasana) or Warrior Poses (Virabhadrasana) emphasize balance, training the body to maintain stability in different positions. Over time, practicing these poses can improve proprioception (the body's awareness in space), enhancing coordination and reducing instability in movement.
Stress Reduction: Stress is a common trigger for MS flare-ups. Yoga’s focus on mindfulness and deep breathing techniques (pranayama) helps calm the nervous system and activate the body’s relaxation response. Practices like meditation, guided relaxation, or Savasana (Corpse Pose) lower cortisol levels (stress hormone), which reduces anxiety, boosts mental clarity, and promotes emotional resilience. Managing stress is crucial for reducing the frequency and severity of MS symptoms.
Better Muscle Strength: MS can lead to muscle atrophy or weakness, particularly in the legs, core, and arms. Yoga poses involve holding the body’s weight in different positions, which strengthens various muscle groups. Poses like Plank (Phalakasana), Bridge Pose (Setu Bandhasana), and Chair Pose (Utkatasana) target the core, glutes, and legs, providing strength and stability. Regular practice also prevents muscle wasting by keeping muscles engaged and active.
Pain Relief: Chronic pain due to MS-related muscle tension, joint stiffness, or neuropathy can be debilitating. Gentle yoga practice helps alleviate pain by improving circulation, reducing inflammation, and releasing endorphins (the body's natural painkillers). Additionally, restorative yoga or slow-flow practices that incorporate props can help individuals with MS relax their muscles without overexertion, offering pain relief in a safe manner.
Improved Mood: Depression and anxiety are common among people with MS due to the physical and emotional toll of the disease. Yoga’s focus on breathing exercises and mindfulness helps regulate mood and emotional responses by promoting relaxation and releasing tension. Meditation practices encourage a focus on the present moment, reducing feelings of overwhelm or anxiety. This emotional stability enhances the overall quality of life for people living with MS.
Enhanced Bladder Control: Bladder dysfunction is a frequent problem for people with MS. Yoga exercises that focus on strengthening the pelvic floor muscles, such as Mula Bandha (Root Lock) or poses that involve engaging the core, help improve bladder function. Strengthening these muscles enhances control over urinary urgency and reduces accidents, which is particularly beneficial for those struggling with incontinence due to MS.
Better Fatigue Management: Fatigue is one of the most common and challenging symptoms of MS. Gentle, low-impact yoga helps individuals conserve energy while increasing their overall stamina. Yoga improves blood circulation, oxygenating the body and brain more efficiently, which combats fatigue. Furthermore, relaxation techniques and deep breathing exercises rejuvenate the mind and body, helping individuals feel more energized and less drained throughout the day.
By combining physical activity, mindfulness, and relaxation, Yoga offers a holistic approach to managing the symptoms of MS, improving both physical function and emotional well-being.
If you know of anyone needing help with MS, do get in touch with me.
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