Exploring Yoga Therapy in Cardiology: Insights on Bikram Yoga, Cardiovascular Health, and Heart Resiliency

How Resilant is Your Heart?

In my Yoga Therapy Master's program, cardiology discussions with Dr. Whipps delved into Bikram yoga's controversy. Despite initial reservations, Bikram yoga, when practiced correctly, has potential therapeutic benefits. A study highlights lower blood pressure and resting heart rates in regular practitioners. Understanding "cardiac reserve" sparks curiosity about enhancing heart resiliency, especially with the increased risk of diastolic heart failure as age advances.

Yoga interventions for hypertension include:

- 3-part breath to regulate the nervous system,

-Bridge poses for pelvic floor release and strength

- Bound Angle pose with props for spine support.

Consistent and intentional Bikram yoga practice may integrate into a holistic approach to cardiovascular well-being.

Sweaty after class, cardiovascular practices help build cardiac reserve photo from Pexels

Original Hot Yoga, the heart, and depression.

Bikram Yoga, a form of hot yoga, involves a sequence of 26 postures and two breathing exercises in a room heated to a high temperature. While it has faced criticism, research suggests positive outcomes. Regular practitioners experience lower blood pressure and resting heart rates, potentially contributing to cardiovascular health. The unique combination of heat, postures, and controlled breathing may enhance overall well-being. A recent Harvard study states that Bikram Yoga may reduce depression.

 According to the study, yoga is an effective treatment for those who are diagnosed with heart failure. Yoga and yoga therapy are effective modalities alone or in conjunction with other health, modalities to support a healthy heart. Yoga efficacy with heart conditions helps reduce heart inflammation, build a cardiac reserve, and especially, yoga impacts psychological conditions like anxiety and depression. ( Hägglund et al. 2017)

Cardio & Yoga

Additionally, cardiovascular yoga, a specialized branch, focuses on heart health through targeted postures and breathwork. Tailored interventions include poses to enhance circulation, regulate blood pressure, and strengthen the heart muscle. Integrating cardiovascular yoga into a comprehensive wellness plan may offer unique advantages for individuals seeking holistic approaches to heart health. Yoga interventions for hypertension, such as the 3-part breath and specific poses, showcase the diverse tools available for cultivating cardiovascular well-being.

All hearts are different, and take support to build resiliency. Photo from Pexels

References

Hewett, Z. L., Cheema, B. S., Pumpa, K. L., & Smith, C. A. (2015). The Effects of Bikram Yoga on Health: Critical Review and Clinical Trial Recommendations. Evidence-based complementary and alternative medicine : eCAM, 2015, 428427. https://doi.org/10.1155/2015/428427

Hägglund, E., Hagerman, I., Dencker, K., & Strömberg, A. (2017). Effects of yoga versus hydrotherapy training on health-related quality of life and exercise capacity in patients with heart failure: A randomized controlled study. European Journal of Cardiovascular Nursing, 16(5), 381–389. https://doi.org/10.1177/1474515117690297

If you’d like to learn more about the heart and yoga please reach out!