Yoga postures and breathing techniques help maintain good circulation of oxygen and nutrient-rich blood to each cell, increases lung capacity and boosts blood circulation. It improves your heart rate, body mass index (BMI), lowers blood pressure and cholesterol levels.
Every yoga pose has a particular effect on the respiratory system and therefore, affects the heart. With mindful movement, it is very effective in dealing with stress, depression and insomnia. It improves balance and stability throughout both your body and mind.
The four best poses for heart health are:
Tadasana (Mountain Pose)
The Mountain Pose helps strengthen the vertebral column and the heart. The deep breathing involved also expands the lungs. Practicing the pose with steady and smooth breaths also helps in relieving stress and increase focus.
Veerabhadrasana (Warrior Pose)
It is a great pose for health problems as well as the Warrior Pose improves balance in the body and increases stamina. It also releases stress, while calming the mind, and helps keep the heart rate in check.
Dhanurasana (Bow Pose)
The Bow Pose, stimulates and greatly stretches the whole body, and specially opens and strengthens the heart region.
Paschimottanasana (Forward Bend Pose)
The Paschimottanasana posture brings the head lower than the heart. This helps in reducing the heart rate and respiration while allowing the entire system to relax.
Inputs from Yoga Expert, Shirly Shan from NRG Fitness