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 Yoga & Fibromyalgia
 Fibromyalgia is a condition that often
produces pain, fatigue, insomnia, headaches and other symptoms. It mainly
affects muscles and their attachments to bones. The cycle of pain and other
physical symptoms often leads to frustration, fear, anxiety and other forms of
emotional upset. Among recommended treatments are moderate physical exercise
that stretches muscles and improves cardiovascular fitness, and relaxation
techniques.
For those coping with fibromyalgia, Yoga exercise, breathing and
relaxation/meditation techniques offer many benefits. Yoga requires no special
equipment and can be done throughout the day, a few techniques at a time, as
needed to maintain energy and strength. Many techniques can be done in a chair,
or even in bed.
Yoga exercises stretch and relax the major muscle groups and help release
tension and fatigue. Exercises that involve compression are especially
beneficial as they work to relax tight, sore muscles, stimulate circulation and
the hormonal system, and push fresh oxygen throughout the body. In addition to
strengthening and limbering the muscles, Yoga exercises leave one revitalized.
Yoga breathing exercises counteract fatigue and lethargy and help to reduce
harmful stress reactions. Deep, rhythmic breathing helps to lift depression and
reduces anxiety and inertia. In depression, the breath becomes more shallow and
less oxygen is available to the brain. Both the breathing exercises and physical
exercises (each with a particular breath pattern) increase the flow of oxygen in
the blood and muscles, and to the brain.
In Yoga relaxation and meditation, the student learns to completely relax
every muscle in the body and then to forget about the body while turning
attention to the mind in meditation. By stopping all thought momentarily, the
mind and body experience a rejuvenating break. One can also use meditation
before bed to improve sleep patterns and to reduce dependency on drugs. Because
fatigue and disturbances in the normal sleep cycle are common symptoms of
fibromyalgia, daily meditation is especially helpful, as it provides the kind of
deep rest that is often unattainable with normal sleep.
Regular practice of Yoga enhances physical, mental and emotional well-being,
providing a solid support system while coping with fibromyalgia. See any of our
beginning books for an all-around routine that may help with this condition: The
American Yoga Association Beginner's Manual, 20-Minute Yoga Workouts, or
The American Yoga Association Wellness Book.
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