A spell of dizziness, a condition known as vertigo, will leave you in a state of imbalance and disorientation. Vertigo, caused by a disturbance in balance and equilibrium of the brain, is an inner ear issue.
Yoga, an effective tool and practice to manage many health conditions is also useful in managing vertigo. Studies have shown yoga as an alternative treatment is beneficial. Yoga for vertigo reduces symptoms of dizziness. Yoga poses for vertigo are also effective in improving symptoms of dizziness in patients with peripheral vestibular dysfunction. Even a Harvard Health article addressed the benefits of yoga for vertigo as an effective and impactful practice. Let’s look at the benefits of yoga for vertigo.
What are the benefits of yoga for vertigo?
Yoga activates and balances the nervous system
Yoga postures, meditation and breathing practices, all have a strong impact on the nervous system. The nervous system gets activated and balanced, specifically centers in the inner ear which are responsible for sending signals to the brain about movements related to gravity.
Reduces stress
There is a direct impact on the parasympathetic nervous system which reduces stress and improves hormonal balance. This keeps one centered and balanced. These factors prevent feelings of disorientation and dizziness.
Improves blood circulation and brain health
Blood circulation to the head and other body parts improves. When a healthy blood flow to brain cells is created, there are stronger chances of curing vertigo. Practicing yoga poses for vertigo will also purify the blood, removing toxins, and ensuring the brain cells get stimulated with clean, pure blood.
Improve balance
Many yoga poses work on improving one’s balance, both physically and mentally. This strengthens the nervous system too. This helps with managing a dizzy spell and being able to control and recover from a vertigo attack. Furthermore, when one is mentally balanced, internally the system is working in a stronger and better way, which will help reduce frequency of attacks.
Improves focus and concentration
Yoga is effective in improving mindfulness and staying present. Focus and concentration improves, allowing one to be more aware of an oncoming vertigo attack and to be aware of triggers that may cause an imbalance.
Yoga practices for vertigo
While yoga and vertigo is an impactful combination, there are a few practices that are particularly beneficial.
Yoga poses for vertigo
Simple yoga asanas can help overcome vertigo, strengthen and balance the nervous system and improve blood circulation, helping you manage vertigo and even completely cure it. A few such yoga poses for vertigo are Supported Headstand (Salamba Sirsasana), Plow Pose (Halasana), Seated Forward Bend (Paschimottanasana) and the Corpse Pose (Savasana).
Breathing exercises for vertigo
Regular practice of certain pranayama can benefit the nervous system greatly. Practice Alternate Nostril Breathing (Nadi Shodhana), which cleanses the blood, strengthens and balances the nervous system and soothes the body. Ujjayi (Victorious or Oceans Breath) pranayama is also an effective practice to relax and balance the nervous system.
Meditation and Relaxation
An important part of practice for those with vertigo, meditation and relaxation, that is Yoga Nidra, can effectively soothe the mind and body, balance the system, improve centeredness and rejuvenate the mind and body.
Yoga poses to avoid for vertigo
With conditions like vertigo which can be serious issues for many, it is highly recommended to practice under the guidance of a teacher to avoid injuries and practices that are not suitable. A few recommendations include avoiding jerks and sudden movements, especially sudden forward bends. Downward facing poses should be avoided or practiced with ease and very gentle movements to avoid dizziness. When attempting inversions like the supported headstand too, one must be careful and practice very slowly. In case of any dizziness or uneasiness, it is recommended you immediately stop the practice until you feel balanced.
In Conclusion
When beginning your journey for yoga to manage vertigo, get a doctor’s approval beforehand. Join an online yoga class with a certified yoga teacher and inform them about your condition. While practicing keep your teacher in the loop about how you are feeling. Lastly, be gentle and kind to yourself. Give yourself time to see progress and improvement in your health. Yoga works wonders but you need to be consistent and give it time.
