Many people blame their weight problems on a slow metabolism, but what does that really mean? Metabolism is the process by which your body converts what you eat and drink into energy. During this complex biochemical process, calories in food are combined with oxygen to release the energy your body needs to function. Metabolism is regulated by the endocrine glands which secrete hormones into the blood stream. The thyroid gland is a major contributor to how slow or revved up your metabolism can get. Low secretion of the hormone thyroxin causes a condition called hypothyroidism which dulls the body and mind.
The causes vary from poor nutrition and stress to lack of exercise. The symptoms include lethargy, constipation, insomnia, hair fall, dry skin, depression, weight gain, fluid retention and low libido. These symptoms are almost always misdiagnosed and it is only through a test that one can confirm the condition correctly. Though men and women are equally vulnerable, post-partum mothers and pre-menopausal women are particularly susceptible. Small doses of the hormone are prescribed as medicine to regulate metabolism and to reduce the risk of heart disease and obesity that are bound to crop up.
The following is a simplified version of a yogic practice called Jalandhar Bandha, which flushes out toxins in the glands and refreshes blood flow. The gentle pressure on thyroid and parathyroid glands stimulates the fresh flow of thyroxin.
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Everyday practice on an empty stomach, as soon as one wakes up, can regulate metabolism and eventually reduce dependency on medication.
Simple Jalandhar Bandha (Throat Lock)
Sit with your back straight on the ground or on a chair.
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Lift your chest up, lengthen the back of your neck, roll your shoulders back and bring your chin level to the ground.
Inhale, hold your breath and gently push your chin into the notch in your neck.
Hold this position for three counts; slowly lift your chin back to its normal position and only then exhale.
Repeat this five times.
Caution: Avoid this if you suffer from hyperthyroidism (excessive secretion).
If you have cervical spondylosis, make fists with your hands and place them in front of your throat as you bend your neck forward. The pressure from your fists will put the necessary stress on your thyroid gland.