6 yoga asanas that help in stroke prevention and recovery

Best yoga pose: Vajrasana improves blood circulation (Image: Canva)

Stroke is a serious medical condition that can have life-altering consequences. Fortunately, there are several ways to reduce the risk of stroke and aid in the recovery process if you or a loved one has experienced one. The ancient practice of yoga is known for its myriad health benefits, and has gained recognition even in the realm of stroke prevention and rehabilitation. Let’s explore six yoga exercises that can increase your chances of saving yourself from a stroke:

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1. Vajrasana

Vajrasana improves blood circulation, aids digestion, and promotes relaxation, all of which are beneficial for stroke prevention and recovery.

• Start by kneeling on the floor with your big toes touching and knees hip-width apart.
• Lower your body onto your heels and keep your spine erect.
• Place your palms on your thighs, facing downward, and close your eyes.
• Breathe deeply and hold this pose for 1-2 minutes.

2. Sukhasana

Best yoga pose: Sukhasana enhances mental clarity and reduces stress (Image: Canva)

This exercises enhances mental clarity, reduces stress, and helps maintain proper posture—a crucial aspect of stroke prevention.

• Sit down with your legs crossed, keeping your back straight.
• Rest your hands on your knees with palms facing upward.
• Close your eyes and take slow, deep breaths for 2-3 minutes.

3. Surya Namaskar

Best yoga pose: Surya Namaskar enhances flexibility and strengthens the cardiovascular system (Image: Canva)

Surya Namaskar enhances flexibility, strengthens the cardiovascular system, and improves overall body function.

• Stand with your feet together, arms by your sides.
• Inhale, raise your arms overhead, and arch your back gently.
• Exhale, bend forward at the waist, reaching for your toes.
• Inhale, step one foot back into a lunge, then the other.
• Exhale, lower yourself into a plank position and perform a push-up.
• Inhale, lift your chest into an upward-facing dog position.
• Exhale, push your hips up into downward-facing dog.
• Inhale, step one foot forward, then the other, into a lunge.
• Exhale, fold forward and return to the standing position.
• Repeat the sequence 5-10 times.

Best yoga pose: Vrikshasana enhances balance and concentration (Image: Canva)

This one enhances balance and concentration, which are crucial for stroke prevention and recovery.

• Stand with your feet together and arms at your sides.
• Shift your weight onto your left foot and bend your right knee.
• Place your right foot on the inner thigh of your left leg.
• Join your hands in a prayer position at your chest.
• Focus on a point in front of you and hold for 30 seconds to 1 minute.
• Repeat on the other side.

Best yoga pose: Shavasana in Apana Mudra promotes deep relaxation and reduces anxiety (Image: Canva)

Shavasana with Apana Mudra promotes deep relaxation, reduces anxiety, and aids in stress management — an essential component of stroke recovery.

• Lie down on your back with your legs and arms stretched out.
• Place your hands in Apana Mudra: Touch the tips of your thumbs to the tips of your middle and ring fingers, keeping the other fingers extended.
• Close your eyes and relax in this pose for 5-10 minutes

Best yoga pose: Dandasana helps improve posture and strengthen the core (Image: Canva)

Dandasana helps improve posture, strengthen the core, and enhance overall body awareness during stroke recovery.

• Sit with your legs extended straight in front of you.
• Place your palms on the floor beside your hips, fingers pointing forward.
• Sit tall, keeping your spine straight, and flex your toes toward you.
• Hold this pose for 30 seconds to 1 minute.