HomeAnswersGeneral PractitioneryogaMy friend has epilepsy and anxiety issues. Can yoga help with it?

Does yoga help with epilepsy, anxiety, and controlling seizures?

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Published At February 24, 2024
Reviewed AtFebruary 24, 2024

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

My friend has epilepsy and experiences anxiety, and they are interested in trying yoga for overall well-being. Can you explain how yoga might impact individuals with epilepsy, especially concerning seizures and anxiety? Furthermore, are there neurology-based considerations or precautions they should be aware of before starting a yoga practice?

Please help.

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I went through your query.

Yoga is a holistic practice that combines physical postures (asanas), breathing exercises (pranayama), and meditation to promote overall health and well-being. While yoga is generally considered safe for most people, individuals with epilepsy should be aware of certain considerations and precautions before starting a yoga practice.

Seizures:

1. Consult with a healthcare provider: It is essential to consult with a healthcare provider before starting a yoga practice, particularly if you have epilepsy. Your healthcare provider can help you understand how yoga may impact your seizures and provide guidance on which poses are safe for you to practice.

2. Avoid inversions: Inversions, such as headstands and handstands, can increase blood pressure and cause dizziness, which may trigger a seizure in some individuals with epilepsy. It is best to avoid these poses or modify them to a level that feels safe and comfortable for you.

3. Practice caution during menstruation: Women with epilepsy may be more prone to seizures during menstruation due to hormonal fluctuations. It is best to avoid or modify yoga poses during this time to prevent any unnecessary risks.

Anxiety:

1. Choose a calming practice: Yoga can be an effective way to manage anxiety, but it is essential to choose a practice that is calming and relaxing for you. Gentle yoga practices, such as Hatha or Restorative Yoga, may be more suitable for individuals with anxiety than more vigorous practices like power yoga.

2. Focus on breathing: Breathing exercises (pranayama) can be an effective way to manage anxiety. Practicing deep breathing exercises, such as Ujjayi or Nadi Shodhana, can help to calm the mind and promote relaxation.

3. Practice mindfulness: Mindfulness meditation can be an effective way to manage anxiety by helping individuals to become more aware of their thoughts and emotions. Practicing mindfulness meditation can help individuals to develop a greater sense of self-awareness and self-regulation.

Neurology-based considerations:

1. Consult with a neurologist: If your friend has epilepsy, it is essential to consult with a neurologist before starting a yoga practice.

2. Be aware of medication interactions: Some medications used to manage epilepsy may interact with certain yoga practices, such as inversions. It is essential to be aware of any medication interactions

3. Listen to your body: It is essential to listen to your body and avoid any yoga poses or practices that feel uncomfortable or unsafe. If you experience any discomfort or pain during a yoga practice, it is best to modify the pose or stop the practice altogether.

In summary, individuals with epilepsy can benefit from practicing yoga, but it is essential to be aware of certain considerations and precautions before starting a practice.

I hope I have answered your queries.

Thanks and regards.

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Dr. Vandana Andrews
Dr. Vandana Andrews

General Practitioner

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