Yoga for healthy kidneys: Reduce the risk of kidney stones and improve kidney function

Yoga for healthy kidneysYoga can be beneficial in promoting kidney health. The main role of the kidneys is to help filter waste from the body, along with secreting necessary hormones and stabilizing blood pressure. The kidneys also help maintain homeostasis which goes to show how important the kidneys really are for the healthy functioning of the entire body, not just the urinary system.

Although modern medicine has come a long way in improving treatment for kidney diseases, there are natural remedies that can offer relief, too. Case in point, yoga can be an effective approach to the risk of kidney stones and improving kidney function.

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Yoga promotes overall well-being and a healthy lifestyle. It is a safe mode of treatment for kidney disease patients because it is not associated with any adverse side effects.

Yoga can stimulate and massage various organs, this way promoting health. When paired with a kidney-friendly diet, it can yield even better results and more significant improvement.

How yoga benefits the kidneys

Yoga can improve kidney health as it is offers relaxation and helps to manage water retention. Plus, it is associated with better sleep and stabilization of the heart rate. Another benefit of yoga for the kidneys is reducing stress on the mind and body. Some positions help promote internal cleansing, which further helps to remove toxins from the body. By performing yoga regularly, patients can experience improved health, better circulation, and greater detoxification.

Yoga poses for kidney health

Backbends: Perform this move laying on your back with arms above your head. Bend your knees and ensure your feet are flat on the ground. Now press your hands down and push yourself upward so you are in an upside-down U – or a bridge. Your head should be dangling between your arms. Hold this position for a few seconds.

Raised leg pose: While on your back, extend your arms above your head. Now raise both legs directly upwards so you are staring at your toes. Your body should be in a 90-degree angle.

Restorative pose: This is completed with the use of folded blankets and towels. You will need to fold one or two comforters and stack them on top of each other. You will also want to roll up a towel. While on your knees, you lay forward on top of the folded blankets and place the towel beneath the top part of your ankles for support.

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Wind-releasing pose: On your back, bring your knees to your chest and hold onto your knees. If possible, fold up your neck so that your chin is near-touching or touching your knees.

Breathing pose: Sitting on your bottom, folding in your legs, rest your hands on each knee. Close your eyes and focus on your breath.

By incorporating these yoga poses into your daily life, you can boost your kidney function along with your overall well-being.


Author Bio

Emily Lunardo studied medical sociology at York University with a strong focus on the social determinants of health and mental illness. She is a registered Zumba instructor, as well as a Canfit Pro trainer, who teaches fitness classes on a weekly basis. Emily practices healthy habits in her own life as well as helps others with their own personal health goals. Emily joined Bel Marra Health as a health writer in 2013.

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