Which yoga and pranayama should be practiced for Dysphagia (swallowing problems) .

 

Dysphagia is a swallowing disorder that can be caused by a variety of factors, including neurological disorders, muscular disorders, and cancer treatments. If you are experiencing difficulty in swallowing, yoga and pranayama can help improve the functioning of the digestive system and reduce stress and anxiety. In this article, we will discuss the best yoga asanas and pranayama techniques to practice when experiencing dysphagia.

Yoga Asanas for Dysphagia

1. Vajrasana (Thunderbolt Pose) - Kneel down on the floor with your knees together and sit on your heels. Place your hands on your thighs, close your eyes, and take deep breaths. This pose improves digestion and relieves gas and bloating, which can make swallowing easier.

2. Bhujangasana (Cobra Pose) - Lie on your stomach with your hands under your shoulders and your elbows close to your body. Inhale and lift your chest off the floor, straightening your arms. Exhale and lower your chest back down. Repeat this movement for several rounds, with your eyes closed and your breath steady. This pose strengthens the muscles of the neck and throat, which can improve swallowing function.

3. Ardha Matsyendrasana (Seated Spinal Twist) - Sit tall with your legs extended in front of you. Bend your right knee and place your right foot over your left leg, with your right hand behind you and your left hand on your right knee. Inhale and lengthen your spine, exhale and deepen the twist. Repeat on the other side. This pose stimulates digestion and can help relieve constipation, which can contribute to dysphagia.

4. Paschimottanasana (Seated Forward Bend) - Sit with your legs extended in front of you, inhale and lift your arms up, exhale and fold forward, reaching for your toes. Rest your forehead on your knees and breathe deeply. This pose stretches the muscles of the abdomen and back, which can improve digestion and relieve gas and bloating.

5. Setu Bandhasana (Bridge Pose) - Lie on your back with your knees bent and your feet hip-width apart. Place your hands underneath your shoulders and lift your hips off the ground. Hold the pose for a few breaths, then release back down to the ground. This pose strengthens the muscles of the neck and throat, which can improve swallowing function.

Pranayama Techniques for Dysphagia

1. Kapalabhati (Skull Shining Breath) - Sit with your spine straight and your hands resting on your knees. Exhale forcefully through your nostrils and then inhale passively. Begin with short, sharp exhalations and gradually increase the speed and duration. This pranayama promotes mental clarity, relaxation and can help relieve stress and anxiety.

2. Nadi Shodhana (Alternate Nostril Breathing) - Sit comfortably with your spine straight. Place your left hand on your left knee, bring your right hand up to your nose and use your thumb to close your right nostril. Inhale deeply through your left nostril. Close your left nostril with your ring finger and exhale through your right nostril. Inhale through your right nostril, close it with your thumb and then exhale through your left nostril. This promotes balance, reduces stress, and improves respiratory function.

3. Bhramari Pranayama (Humming Bee Breath) - Sit comfortably with your eyes closed and your hands resting on your knees. Breathe in deeply and then exhale slowly, producing a humming sound from your throat. Repeat this for several rounds, focusing on the vibration produced by the humming sound. This pranayama relieves stress, anxiety, and promotes relaxation, which can help reduce stress and tension in the neck and throat.

4. Ujjayi Pranayama (Victorious Breath) - Sit comfortably with your spine straight and your hands resting on your knees. Gently constrict the back of your throat and inhale through your nose. Exhale through your nose while making a soft, hissing sound. This pranayama promotes relaxation, reduces stress and anxiety, and can help promote a sense of balance in the body.

5. Shitali Pranayama (Cooling Breath) - Sit in a comfortable cross-legged position and form a tube with your tongue. Inhale through the mouth and exhale through the nose. This pranayama is said to cool the body and mind, which can help ease tension and calm the nervous system.

Do's and Don'ts for Dysphagia

DO:

1. Stay hydrated by drinking water regularly throughout the day. This can help lubricate the throat and make swallowing easier.

2. Eat slowly and mindfully, chewing each bite thoroughly. This can help improve digestion and reduce stress while eating.

3. Practice relaxation techniques, such as yoga asanas and pranayama, to reduce stress and tension in the neck and throat.

4. Get enough rest and sleep to promote the healing process and reduce stress.

5. Seek medical attention if dysphagia persists or worsens.

DON'T:

1. Eat foods that are difficult to swallow, such as hard or sticky foods.

2. Eat too quickly or while lying down, as this can increase the risk of choking.

3. Neglect to seek medical attention if dysphagia persists or worsens.

4. Over-exert yourself during exercise or yoga practice, as this can put stress on the muscles and make swallowing more difficult.

5. Drink alcohol or smoke, which can irritate the throat and make swallowing more difficult.

In conclusion, dysphagia can be a challenging condition, but yoga asanas and pranayama can be helpful in improving digestion, reducing stress, and promoting relaxation. It's important to eat mindfully and stay hydrated, practice relaxation techniques regularly, and seek medical attention if dysphagia persists or worsens. Regular yoga practice can help promote good overall health and well-being.