You could be perfectly healthy. Yet, health needs to be maintained well. A few lifestyle changes will give strength and vitality to your whole body. While such changes are extremely beneficial, its essential to pay attention to all the parts of our body. After all, all parts make the whole. A little pair of organs that require out attention: kidneys.

Kidneys perform the vital function of purifying the blood by filtering the waste from it. They also help in the functioning of the urinary system, secretion of hormones and maintenance of blood pressure level in the body. Kidneys also have the additional function of homeostasis or maintaining the level of acid and bases in the body. Clearly, kidneys are one of the most vital organs in the body and should be cared for.

What do kidneys do?

• Remove metabolic waste
• Absorb essential nutrients
• Maintain homeostasis
• Help filter blood
• Produce hormones

Caring for your kidneys

Kidney-related diseases are more prevalent in developing nations, where a combination of insufficient nutrition, stress, and unhealthy lifestyle contributes to renal deterioration. A World Health Organization (WHO) research has found that almost a million lives are lost annually, all over the globe, due to kidney and urinary tract-related complications. Moreover, high blood pressure and diabetes are known to worsen the situation.

Modern medicine and advanced medical equipment have helped doctors curb the damage caused to kidneys. Apart from this, natural alternatives like yoga for kidney health are effective and simple.

Yoga is an ancient branch of holistic living that promotes a healthy lifestyle through asanas, meditation, and Ayurveda. The best part about yoga is that it is entirely natural and does not have any side-effects.

Yoga for kidney health

Yoga poses stimulate and massage various organs that help bring the body to an optimal condition. Start off with these simple yoga poses to ensure the health of your kidneys. These poses affect other parts of the body as well. So in your practice of yoga for kidney health, you are helping the entire body. Good health starts here.

Salamba Bhujangasana (Sphinx Pose)

The Salamba Bhujangasana (sphinx pose) stretches and strengthens the abdominal organs. It also raises the immunity level of the body.

Ardha Matsyendrasana (Sitting Half Spinal Twist)

The Ardha Matsyendrasana (sitting half spinal twist) stimulates the kidneys and liver. It also improves the body’s immunity level.

Bhujangasana (Cobra Pose)

The Bhujangasana (cobra pose) also stimulates the abdominal organs and relieves the body of stress and fatigue. It is also known to boost immunity.

Paschimottanasana (Two-Legged Forward Bend)

Paschimottanasana (two-legged forward bend) stimulates the kidney, improves digestion, and relieves one of menstrual discomfort.

Setu Bandhasana (Bridge Pose)

The bridge pose stimulates the abdominal organs. Setu Bandhasana also helps bring high blood pressure under control and relieves the body of stress.

Naukasana (Boat Pose)

Naukasana (boat pose) strengthens and stimulates the abdominal organs. It also helps improve digestion and alleviates stress.

Yoga for kidney health: how this works

Yoga asanas are known to increase relaxation. They also assist in managing water retention in the body. This enables sound sleep schedules and hence better rest. A well-rested body is better able to perform functions such as regulation of water in the body and stabilizing the heartbeat.

Yoga keeps the internal organs healthy, balances the various systems in the body, and effectively controls the stress of the body and mind. Some of the yoga asanas and pranayamas facilitate internal cleansing rituals that ensure the flushing out of toxins from the body. This also ensures that blood flows to various parts of the body, keeping it fresh and energetic. And you thought yoga for kidney health didn’t add up!

Tips to keep your kidneys healthier

Besides yoga for kidney health, there are a few lifestyle changes you can include:

• Consume home cooked food and avoid eating outside food.
• Include more fruits and green leafy vegetables in your diet.
• Avoid foods with high-potassium content and include more iron-rich food in your diet.
• Switch to an ayurvedic diet for more nutrition.
• Drink plenty of water and get 6-8 hours of sleep every day.

Practice yoga for kidney health and meditation regularly, eat healthy food and rest well. A stress-free body responds more positively to therapy or cure than a stressed one. More importantly, stay positive and enjoy life to the fullest!