THE HUMAN HEART The heart is a vital organ in the human body that provides continuous blood circulation in the cardiac system. The human heart has a mass between 250 and 300 grams and is about the size of a large fist. The heart has two upper chambers called the left atrium and the right atrium. It has two lower chambers called the left ventricle and the right ventricle. The right and left side of the heart is separated by a thick wall of muscle called the septum. The heart is enclosed in a double walled protective sac called the pericardium. This layer protects the heart from any kind of physical damage and infections.
FUNCTIONS OF THE HEARTThe main function of the heart is to act like a pump that supplies oxygenated blood throughout the body. The heart of an adult beats approximately 72 times per minute. The function of the right side of the heart is to collect de-oxygenated blood in the right atrium, from the body and pump through the right ventricle into the lungs so that co2 is dropped off and oxygen taken. This process is called diffusion.
The left side of the heart collects oxygenated blood from the lungs into the left atrium and gives it to the left ventricle which pumps it out to the body through the aorta.
VARIOUS HEART DISORDERS AND CAUSESHeart disease has become a major cause of death. There are various reasons for this. This includes obesity, high blood pressure and high cholesterol. A bad lifestyle, lack of exercise, heavy and fatty diet also play a significant role in increasing risk of heart troubles. Emotional and physiological factors also affect heart health.
There are many types of heart diseases. One form of heart disease is congenital i.e., people who are having a heart disorder since birth. Another form is the one that develops in the later stages of life. Heart problems develop when the arteries are blocked due to clogging with fat, cholesterol or cells.
As a result flow of blood is restricted or in some cases blocked. Lack of blood flow to the heart causes heart attack and lack of blood flow to the brain results in a stroke. When the blood flow is to the heart is not enough then it results in a disorder called angina. It occurs in the form of a discomfort or pain in the chest and radiates down the left arm
Just like every disease the problems and disorders of heart can also be corrected with the help of yoga and proper diet with proper discipline and lifestyle. For leading a healthy life it is important that the heart remains healthy because it supplies blood to each and every part of the body. A healthy heart helps the body to function properly and prevents heart attacks, strokes and certain diseases of the heart. Regular exercises and yoga rectify heart ailments. Yoga is known to serve as an effective tool in preventing coronary artery disease.
Exercising the yogic way improves the health of the entire circulatory system. The production of blood improves which takes place in the marrow of long bones in the thighs. Stretching exercises improves blood circulation in legs. It also helps in stretching the body’s major blood vessels and increases their elasticity. Improved circulation results in improved working of the brain and improves alertness, mood and memory power. All vital organs also functions better. The asanas in yoga helps prevent cardio-vascular diseases. Yoga has direct influence on the hypothalamus and helps prevent heart attacks. Regular practice lowers the blood pressure, reduces stress and boosts the immune system The heart is muscular and through yoga the heart muscles are made stronger. Asanas are an essential component of yoga that brings stability and steadiness to the body. Asanas like Tadasana, Trikonasana, Vrukshasana etc are beneficial for the heart.
Along with asanas proper breathing techniques are also important. Kapalabhati is a breathing technique in which the entire respiratory system is exercised and oxygen flow is improved. So oxygen rich blood reaches the heart and enhances its functioning. Anuloma-viloma is another breathing process that helps in keeping the heart function proper. It also keeps the body and mind peaceful thus reducing the stress level. So the burden on the heart is lessened.
Meditation is also an important part of yoga practice. Meditation provides tranquility to the mind and reduces stress level. It also helps control unwanted emotions like depression, anxiety and hostility that causes extra pressure to the heart. Daily practice of meditation also reduces blood pressure and fatty deposits in the arteries. It also creates an awareness of the inner source of strength and power. It builds up self esteem and confidence of an individual.
Yoga practice can really make difference to the heart by strengthening the body, helping in relaxing and for a better stress management.
Symptoms of heart disorders :The various symptoms related to heart diseases are sweating, Pain, burning, aching, pressure and discomfort, cramping and numbness, shortness of breath0, indigestion and fullness, squeezing and tightness of the heart. Some may even experience nausea and vomiting.
YOGA AND ITS ROLE IN PREVENTION AND TREATING HEART DISEASESThe physical and mental well being of a person is not enough to say that he is healthy. A proper balance of mind, body and soul is essential to stay healthy. Yoga is a complete solution for people who want to be healthy in mind, body and soul. People who practice yoga regularly are experiencing its benefits in many ways. Those who are not having any problems are able to lead a fit life and remain free of diseases by doing yoga regularly.
Just like every disease the disorders of heart can also be corrected with the help of yoga and proper diet. A proper discipline and lifestyle is also important. A healthy heart helps in proper functioning of the body and prevents heart attacks, strokes and various other diseases. Regular exercises and yoga rectify heart ailments. Yoga is known to serve as an effective tool in preventing coronary artery disease.
Exercising the yogic way improves the health of the entire circulatory system. The production of blood improves which takes place in the marrow of bones in the thighs. Stretching exercises improves blood circulation in the legs. It also helps in stretching the body’s major blood vessels and increases their elasticity. Improved circulation results in improved working of the brain and improves alertness, mood and memory power.
All vital organs also function better. The asanas in yoga helps prevent cardio-vascular diseases. Yoga has direct influence on the hypothalamus and prevent heart attacks. Regular practice lowers the blood pressure, reduces stress and boosts the immune system. The heart is muscular and yoga makes the heart muscles stronger. Asanas are an essential component of yoga that brings stability and steadiness to the body. Asanas like Tadasana, Trikonasana, Vrukshasana etc. are beneficial for the heart.
Along with asanas proper breathing techniques are also important. Kapalabhati is a breathing technique in which the entire respiratory system is exercised and oxygen flow is improved. So oxygen rich blood reaches the heart and enhances its functioning. But this exercise has its own limits and should be performed under control. Anuloma-viloma is another breathing process that helps in keeping the heart function proper. It also keeps the body and mind peaceful thus reducing the stress level. So the burden on the heart is lessened.
Meditation is an important part of yoga. Meditation provides tranquility to the mind and reduces stress level. It also helps control unwanted emotions like depression, anxiety and hostility that causes extra pressure in the heart. Daily practice of meditation also reduces blood pressure and fatty deposits in the arteries. It also creates an awareness of the inner source of strength and power. It builds up self-esteem and confidence of an individual.
Yoga practice can really make difference to the heart by strengthening the body, helping in relaxing and for a better stress management. The combination of stretching, gentle activity, breathing and mindfulness in yoga has special benefits for people with cardiovascular disease.
Benefits Of Yoga :
• Reduces high blood pressure
• Minimizes symptoms of heart failure
• Enhances cardiac rehabilitation
• Eases palpitations
• Lowers cardiovascular risk factors such as blood sugar, cholesterol level and stress hormone
• Improves balance, eases arthritis and improves breathing for people with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.
• It is also a prevention against various diseases.
HEALTHY DIET FOR A HEALTHY HEARTFor curing any disease a proper diet is very important. Diet is actually a medicine that can’t be ignored. Food plays an essential role in proper functioning of the body. For healthy living healthy eating is very essential. So for a healthy heart a well-balanced diet is important. People with heart disease or are likely to face it should always take care in eating a low fat and light food. Low fat diet helps in keeping the cholesterol level normal.
If cholesterol level increases then it leads to clogging of arteries. Later on the blood supply to heart is restricted and leads to disorders. Fried and fatty foods should be avoided. If possible a strict vegetarian diet is best. Whole grains, oats, fresh fruits and vegetables should be taken in plenty.
A little care in daily diet will not only keep heart diseases away but also can control any kind of heart ailment.
HEALTHY DIET FOR A HEALTHY HEART
There are many things one can do to keep the heart healthy. Some of them are :
• Exercise regularly
• A daily routine of activities should be followed
• Fatty and spicy food should be avoided.
• Stress levels should be reduced.
• Find a proper time for daily relaxation.
• Include fresh fruits and vegetables in daily diet.
• Smoking and drinking should be avoided.
• Get proper sleep and rest.
Yogratna Yogacharya Vijayan Raman says that with proper form of exercise and diet a person can prevent many problems in life including that of the heart.
Note: Yoga should be practiced under the strict guidance of an expert yoga guru only.
This matter has been collected and composed by Yogaratna Yogacharya Vijayan Raman.
 |
 |
