The human body is a complex machine that requires its daily quota of minerals and other essentials to function properly. With a constantly evolving and hectic lifestyle, it becomes a daunting task to keep a check on these daily essentials. Eventually, we end up missing out on most of them and harm our body. While the lack of a lot of these vitamins and minerals can be meted out through fortified food and supplements, Vitamin D stands out as an exception here.
The skin produces Vitamin D naturally when it is exposed to sunlight and hence also referred to as the Sunshine Vitamin. The human body needs an uninterrupted exposure to sunlight for at least 10-15 minutes everyday to make sufficient amount of Vitamin D. This duration may vary depending on the region where you stay and also on the pigmentation of your skin.
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Get More Sunshine Vitamin
Time is of the essence in today’s life. So, instead of taking just a 15 minute sunbath everyday, one must use their time wisely. Rolling out a yoga mat in the sunshine and reposing in your favorite postures can be one of the alternatives. Practicing yoga outdoors is very refreshing and also recommended by experts. Doing yoga outdoor keeps the body fit and also uses this time to replenish Vitamin D, a perfect win-win situation.
Here are a few simple yoga that can aid in boosting Vitamin D levels up:
Vrikshasana (Tree pose)
The Tree pose strengthens the legs, opens the hips and relieves the body of sciatica. It also brings balance and equilibrium to the mind.
Veerabhadrasana (Warrior pose)
The Warrior pose strengthens and tones the arms, legs and lower back. This posture is highly recommended for people with desk-bound jobs.
Trikonasana (Triangle pose)
The Triangle pose strengthens the legs, knees, ankles, arms and chest. It also improves digestion and reduces back-ache, stress and anxiety.
Ardha Matsyendrasana (Sitting half-spinal twist)
The Sitting half-spinal twist makes the spine flexible and improves the supply of oxygen to the lungs.
Bhujangasana (Cobra pose)
The Cobra pose tones the abdomen and strengthens the entire back and shoulders. It also reduces stress and fatigue.
Shavasana (Corpse pose)
The Corpse pose leaves the body in a deep and meditative state of rest, thus rejuvenating the body. End your yoga routine by lying down in this posture for a couple of minutes.
Sun-Block: Do You Need It?
In the past two decades, sun-blocks have come to be seen as an effective way to stop UV rays from harming the skin. While these sunscreen lotions or sun-blocks are effective to a great extent, applying them hampers the creation of Vitamin D. It would be ideal if you practice yoga outdoor early in the morning without applying any sunblock. The intensity of sunlight is comparatively less in the morning and so you’ll be safe from the harmful UV rays.
Yoga practice helps develop the body and mind bringing a lot of health benefits yet is not a substitute for medicine. It is important to learn and practice yoga postures under the supervision of a trained Art of Living Yoga teacher. In case of any medical condition, practice yoga postures after consulting a doctor and a Art of Living Yoga teacher. Find a Art of Living Yoga course at an Art of Living Center near you. Do you need information on courses or share feedback? Write to us at [email protected]
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