How Does Yoga Stimulate the Endocrine System?

Your endocrine system is a collection of glands that regulate numerous body functions. Things like growth, metabolism and sexual development are all affected by the endocrine system. Not all of yoga’s claims related to endocrine system health have been validated by scientific research, although some have. For example, in 2011, Washington State University found that practicing Iyengar yoga, an alignment-focused program, helped regulate cortisol secretion in breast cancer survivors.

Instructions

    • 1

      Take deep breaths to reduce stress. Yoga classes can reduce cortisol and adrenaline in your body, making you feel less stressed. Breathing is one way to immediately calm your body. Most people normally take quite shallow, unfocused breaths. During yoga, sit or stand up straight. Exhale the air completely out of your body, then drop your shoulders away from your ears, lift your sternum and tuck your chin slightly to expand your airways. Inhale fully, counting to three or five slowly until it feels like you’ve filled your belly, lungs and throat with fresh air. Exhale just as slowly.

    • 2

      Complete vigorous standing postures, such as warrior II and reverse warrior. High-impact poses stimulate the endocrine system by powering up the body for action. To initiate warrior II, step back with your left foot and bend your right knee to 90 degrees. Activate your abdominal muscles, drop your shoulders down and extend your right arm in front of you while extending your left arm behind your back. Breathe deeply for five counts, then flip your right palm upwards and drop your left hand down to your extended back leg. Draw your right arm overhead, pointing your chest toward the ceiling while sliding your left hand further down your leg, keeping a light touch, to complete reverse warrior. Switch to work your left side.

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      Power up in unsupported backbends to affect your endocrine system, according to Yoga Journal. Begin bridge pose by lying on your back with your knees bent and your feet planted on the floor. Rest your arms alongside your body on the mat, palms down. On an inhale, lift your hips high and bring your arms directly below your back, interlacing your fingers and pressing your forearms into the mat. To transition to wheel, release your hands, bringing your palms to rest on the ground near your ears with your fingers pointed toward your toes. Inhale, straightening your arms and legs while keeping your head in neutral position. Breathe deeply for five counts.

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      Target your immunity by engaging your body in upward-lifting movements through the chest, according to "Women’s Health" magazine. To complete upward-facing dog, lie on your belly with your palms pressing into the floor directly beneath your shoulders. Inhale, straightening your arms and lifting your torso from the floor. Keep your legs pressing into the ground and your back engaged as you inhale to lift a bit higher. In bow pose, lie on your belly with your knees bent. Reach back for the insides of your feet with your hands. Inhale, lifting your chest as you kick into your hands with your feet. Keep your back and shoulders strong as you lift your chest higher.