Yoga Poses For Heart Blocks

Heart blocks are obstruction in the electrical conduction system of the heart, which is responsible for the pumping efficiency of the heart. A heart block does not cause a heart attack, but it can result in fainting, lightheadedness and palpitations. The type of treatment recommended for this cardiological defect is determined by the degree of the heart block, ranging from no-treatment to the implantation of a pacemaker.

Yoga exercises, which are therapeutic, seem to be beneficial in curing heart blocks. Persons with heart blocks and other problems should exercise moderately and gently. It is important that they learn and practice yoga under an authentic yoga practitioner.

Most Effective Yoga Poses For Heart Blocks

Nadi Shodhana Pranayama (Alternate Nostrils Breathing)

Nadi Shodhan Pranayama fills your lungs with fresh oxygen. It detoxifies your body and is immensely powerful in relieving stress, which is one of the major causes of heart blocks. Perform this asana by sitting comfortably, cross-legged. Inhale gently, deeply and gradually through your right nostril, while keeping your left nostril shut with the middle finger of your right hand.

Exhale through your left nostril, gradually, while keeping your right nostril shut with your thumb. Do not hold your breath anywhere. Repeat the cycle, inhaling from the nostril you last exhaled. Perform this exercise for 15-20 minutes every day.

Brahmari Pranyama (Bee Breathing Technique)

Mental tensions are one of the major causal factors for heart blocks. Bhramari Pranayama relaxes the cerebrum and relieves mental stress, anger and anxiety. It relieves mental agony, thereby releasing heart blocks. Perform the Bee Breathing yoga exercise by sitting cross-legged on the floor and closing your ear drums with your index fingers on either side.

Now, chant “om” in a long drawn manner. Shut your mouth midway while chanting “OM” and let the internal chant vibrate your brain. The sound that you make will resemble the buzzing of a bee.

Ardha Matsyendrasana (Half King Of The Fish Pose)

Ardha Matsyendrasana is also known as the Half Spinal Twist. Perform this asana by sitting on the floor. Sit cross-legged and then place your left leg over your right leg. Your left ankle should be touching your right thigh.

Now, pass your left hand through the gap between your left leg and your torso and try to hold your left ankle with it. Turn your torso to your right. Remain in this pose for 1-2 minutes or longer. Revert to resting pose. This asana stimulates your spine, heart and nervous system.

Sukh Purvak Pranayama (Joy Of Breathing Pose)

Sukh Purvak Pranayama is performed sitting is a “Sukh” or comfortable posture. It is a breathing exercise that is started by sitting in cross-legged (Padmasana) or Sukh Asana (Easy Pose). Close your eyes and breathe in through your right nostril while keeping your left nostril closed with your right little finger. 

Now exhale through your left nostril while keeping your right nostril closed with your right thumb.  Ideally, you should hold your breath in between inhalation and exhalation but you should confirm the suitability of such a step for you from your yoga practitioner before doing the same.

Salamba Bhujangasana (Sphinx Pose)

The Sphinx Pose is an easy yoga pose to open out your chest and thereby enhance the circulation in your heart region. Lie on your abdomen, with your legs stretched out straight at the back and placed slightly apart.

Place your arms in front of you, with your forearms parallel to each other and relax. Remain in this pose for 2-5 minutes or longer.