Recent statistics show that one of every five women in India between 21 and 60 has suffered, is suffering or is likely to suffer from polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Women
suffering from PCOS face several symptoms ranging from pesky ones like fatigue, facial hair growth, thinning hair and acne, to more serious conditions like infertility and crippling menstrual pain.
Even as women diagnosed with a serious case of PCOS may have to take medication, often the symptoms start as mild and increase if not kept in check with diet and exercise. This is where yoga can help. PCOS is often caused due to hormonal imbalances, and an asana practice works beautifully on the endocrine system. While all forms of exercise are good, it is yoga that targets the glands of the endocrine system, and over time, with regular practice hormones can be balanced.
Rule of five
Suryanamaskar: It aids weight loss (weight gain can be a real reason for PCOS). It reduces high blood pressure and improves lipid profile. It stimulates the flow of blood and is a great warm-up for asana practice.
Perform six rounds (12 daily), ideally first thing in the morning.
Sarvangasana: The mother of all asanas, this is wonderful for massaging the thyroid and parathyroid glands. It is one of the most important practices of yoga. While this can be a little difficult for some, for those suffering from PCOS, try your best to build up to this practice.
Try to build up to holding for 1 minute. The longer you hold, the more the benefit.
Halasana: An asana that we often practise along with Sarvangasana.
I consider this asana as step 2 of Sarvangasana. It provides many of the benefits of Sarvangasana, plus more for your spine and back.
Build up to holding for 1 minute.
Matsyasana: The counterpose for both Sarvangasana and Halasana, we continue working on toning the thyroid and parathyroid glands. I consider this to be step 3 of Sarvangasana.
Build up to holding for 1 minute.
Dhanurasana: An amazing asana to massage the entire reproductive system. It helps relieve period cramps when done regularly.
Build up to holding for 1 minute.
