On World Diabetes Day – Diabetes Mellitus

Nov 142014

On World Diabetes Day – Diabetes Mellitus

World Diabetes Day (WDD) is celebrated every year on November 14 to mark the birthday of Sir Frederick Banting of London ON, who, along with Charles Best, first conceived the idea leading to the discovery of insulin in 1921.

This day engages millions of people worldwide in diabetes advocacy and awareness. World Diabetes Day was created in 1991 by the International Diabetes Federation and the World Health Organization in response to growing concerns about the escalating health threat of diabetes. It was adopted as an official United Nations Day in 2007 with the passage of United Nation Resolution 61/225. The campaign draws attention to issues of paramount importance to the diabetes world. Healthy Living and Diabetes is the World Diabetes Day theme for 2014-2016.

The logo for World Diabetes Day is the blue circle – the global symbol for diabetes which was developed as part of the Unite for Diabetes awareness campaign.

Diabetes Mellitus

Around 250 B.C., the name “diabetes” was first used. The word diabetes comes from Greek, meaning a “siphon”. Araetus the Cappadocian, a Greek physician during the second century A.D., named the condition diabainein. He described patients who were passing too much water (polyuria) – like a siphon. The word became “diabetes” from the English adoption of the Medieval Latin diabetes.

In 1675, Thomas Willis added mellitus to the term, although it is commonly referred to simply as diabetes. Mel in Latin means “honey”; the urine and blood of people with diabetes has excess glucose, and glucose is sweet like honey. Diabetes mellitus could literally mean “siphoning off sweet water”.

In ancient India people observed that ants would be attracted to some people’s urine, because it was sweet. The term “Sweet Urine Disease” was coined.

Key Points

Diabetes is a long-term condition that causes high blood sugar levels.
In 2013 it was estimated that over 382 million people throughout the world had diabetes.
In Type 1 Diabetes – the body does not produce insulin. Approximately 10% of all diabetes cases are type 1.
In Type 2 Diabetes – the body does not produce enough insulin for proper function. Approximately 90% of all cases of diabetes worldwide are of this type.
Gestational Diabetes – this type affects females during pregnancy.
The most common diabetes symptoms include
- Polyuria – frequent urination
- Polydipsia – intense thirst, and
- Polyphagia – intense hunger.
- Weight gain, unusual weight loss, fatigue, cuts and bruises that do not heal, male sexual dysfunction, numbness and tingling in hands and feet are also commonly reported symptoms.
In Type 1 Diabetes, if you follow a healthy eating plan, do adequate exercise, and take insulin, you can lead a normal life.
In Type 2, patients need to eat healthily, be physically active, and test their blood glucose. They may also need to take oral medication, and/or insulin to control blood glucose levels.
As the risk of cardiovascular disease is much higher for diabetics, it is crucial that blood pressure and cholesterol levels are monitored regularly.
As smoking might have a serious effect on cardiovascular health, diabetics should stop smoking.
Hypoglycemia – low blood glucose – can have a deleterious effect on patient.
Hyperglycemia – when blood glucose is too high – can also have a bad effect on the patient.

There are three types of diabetes:

1) Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus

The body does not produce insulin. It is also referred to as insulin-dependent diabetes, juvenile diabetes, or early-onset diabetes. People usually develop type 1 diabetes before their 40th year, often in early adulthood or teenage years. Approximately 10% of all diabetes cases are type 1. Patients with type 1 diabetes will need to take insulin injections for the rest of their life. They must also ensure proper blood-glucose levels by carrying out regular blood tests and following a special diet. The prevalence of type 1 Diabetes among the under 20s in the USA rose 23% between 2001 and 2009.

2) Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus

Beta cells in islets of Langerhans do not produce enough insulin for proper function, or the receptors in the body do not react to insulin (insulin resistance). Approximately 90% of all cases of diabetes worldwide are of this type. Overweight and obese people have a much higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes. People with more of central obesity are especially at risk. Being overweight/obese causes the body to release chemicals that can destabilize the body’s cardiovascular and metabolic systems. It may respond to simple measures such as : loss of weight, following a healthy diet, doing plenty of exercise, and monitoring blood glucose levels regularly. However, type 2 diabetes is typically a progressive disease. Drinking just one can of (non-diet) soda per day can raise our risk of developing type 2 diabetes by 22%. The risk of developing type 2 diabetes is also greater as we get older. Men whose testosterone levels are low have been found to have a higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes.

3) Gestational Diabetes Mellitus

Diagnosis of gestational diabetes is made during pregnancy. This type affects females during pregnancy. Some women have very high levels of glucose in their blood, and their bodies are unable to produce enough insulin to transport all of the glucose into their cells, resulting in progressively rising levels of glucose.

The majority of gestational diabetes patients can control their diabetes with exercise and diet. Women whose diets before becoming pregnant were high in animal fat and cholesterol had a higher risk for gestational diabetes, compared to their counterparts whose diets were low in cholesterol and animal fats.

Pre-diabetes Mellitus

The vast majority of patients with type 2 diabetes initially have prediabetes. Their post-prandial blood glucose levels go higher than normal, but come back to normal. Studies indicate that some damage to the circulatory system and the heart may occur even at this stage.

Investigations

Doctors can determine whether a patient has a normal metabolism, is pre-diabetic or diabetic through three tests:

The Hb A1c test: Glycated hemoglobin (hemoglobin A1c, HbA_1c, A1C, or Hb_1c; sometimes also HbA1c or HGBA1C) is a form of hemoglobin that is measured primarily to identify the average plasma glucose concentration over prolonged periods of time.
– at least 6.5% means diabetes
– between 5.7% and 5.99% means pre-diabetes
– less than 5.7% means normal
The FPG (Fasting Plasma Glucose) test
– at least 126 mg/dl (7.0 mmol/L) means diabetes
– between 100 mg/dl and 125.99 mg/dl (5.5 to 7.0 mmol/L) means prediabetes
– less than 100 mg/dl (5.5 mmol/L) means normal
An abnormal reading following the FPG means the patient has impaired fasting glucose (IFG)
The OGTT (oral glucose tolerance test)
– at least 200 mg/dl (11.2 mmol/L) means diabetes
– between 140 and 199.9 mg/dl (7.8 to 11.2 mmol/L) means prediabetes
– less than 140 mg/dl (7.8 mmol/L) means normal
An abnormal reading following the OGTT means the patient has impaired glucose tolerance (IGT)

Blood Glucose Regulation

Following is the list of known hormones which regulate blood glucose levels.

Hormone	Tissue of Origin	Metabolic Effect	Effect on Blood Glucose
Insulin	Pancreatic β Cells in Islets of Langerhans	1) Enhances entry of glucose into cells 2) Enhances storage of glucose as glycogen, or conversion to fatty acids 3) Enhances synthesis of fatty acids and proteins 4) Suppresses breakdown of proteins into amino acids, of adipose tissue into free fatty acids	Lowers
Somatostatin	Pancreatic δ Cells in Islets of Langerhans	1) Suppresses glucagon release from α cells (acts locally) 2) Suppresses release of Insulin, Pituitary tropic hormones, gastrin and secretin	Lowers
Glucagon	Pancreatic α Cells in Islets of Langerhans	1) Enhances release of glucose from glycogen 2) Enhances synthesis of glucose from amino acids or fatty acids	Raises
Epinephrine	Adrenal medulla	1) Enhances release of glucose from glycogen 2) Enhances release of fatty acids from adipose tissue	Raises
Cortisol	Adrenal cortex	1) Enhances gluconeogenesis 2) Antagonizes Insulin	Raises
ACTH	Anterior pituitary	1) Enhances release of cortisol 2) Enhances release of fatty acids from adipose tissue	Raises
Growth Hormone	Anterior pituitary	Antagonizes Insulin	Raises
Thyroxine	Thyroid	1) Enhances release of glucose from glycogen 2) Enhances absorption of sugars from intestine	Raises

Controlling Diabetes

All types of diabetes are treatable.

Diabetes type 1 lasts a lifetime, there is no known cure. Patients with type 1 are treated with regular insulin injections, as well as a special diet and exercise.

Type 2 usually lasts a lifetime, however, it can be managed with or without medication, through a combination of exercise, diet and body weight control. Sometimes insulin injections are also required.

Patient has a significantly higher risk of developing complications especially if diabetes is not adequately controlled.

Complications linked to diabetes

Eye complications– glaucoma, cataracts, diabetic retinopathy, and some others.
Foot complications– neuropathy, ulcers, and sometimes gangrene which may require that the foot be amputated
Skin complications– people with diabetes are more susceptible to skin infections and skin disorders
Heart problems– such as ischemic heart disease, when the blood supply to the heart muscle is diminished
Hypertension– common in people with diabetes, which can raise the risk of kidney disease, eye problems, heart attack and stroke
Mental health– uncontrolled diabetes raises the risk of suffering from depression, anxiety and some other mental disorders
Hearing loss– diabetes patients have a higher risk of developing hearing problems
Gum disease– there is a much higher prevalence of gum disease among diabetes patients
Gastroparesis– the muscles of the stomach stop working properly
Ketoacidosis– a combination of ketosis and acidosis; accumulation of ketone bodies and acidity in the blood.
Neuropathy– diabetic neuropathy is a type of nerve damage which can lead to several different problems.
HHNS (Hyperosmolar Hyperglycemic Nonketotic Syndrome)– blood glucose levels shoot up too high, and there are no ketones present in the blood or urine. It is an emergency condition.
Nephropathy– uncontrolled blood pressure can lead to kidney disease
PAD (peripheral arterial disease)– symptoms may include pain in the leg, tingling and sometimes problems walking properly
Stroke– if blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and blood glucose levels are not controlled, the risk of stroke increases significantly
Erectile dysfunction– male impotence.
Infections– people with badly controlled diabetes are much more susceptible to infections
Healing of wounds– cuts and lesions take much longer to heal

Some Facts And Myths Regarding Diabetes

Many presumed myths keep making rounds. It is important to have an accurate picture of the disease. Some common diabetes myths are mentioned here:

People with diabetes should not exercise– THIS IS NOT TRUE! Exercise is important for people with diabetes, as it is for everybody else. Exercise helps manage body weight, improves cardiovascular health, improves mood, helps blood sugar control, and relieves stress. Yoga has been shown to have an important role. Patients should discuss exercise with their doctor first.
Fat people always develop type 2 diabetes eventually– Again, this is not true. Being overweight or obese raises the risk of becoming diabetic, they are risk factors, but do not mean that an obese person will definitely become diabetic.
Diabetes is a nuisance, but not serious– Diabetes is a serious disease. Two thirds of diabetes patients die prematurely from stroke or heart disease. The life expectancy of a person with diabetes is from five to ten years shorter than other people’s.
Children can outgrow diabetes– Child-onset diabetes is almost always type 1; insulin-producing beta cells in islets of Langerhans in pancreas do not produce insulin, so they will need to take insulin for the rest of their lives.
Don’t eat too much sugar, you will become diabetic– A person with diabetes type 1 develops the disease because immune system destroyed the insulin-producing beta cells. A diet high in calories, which can make people overweight/obese, raises the risk of developing type 2 diabetes, especially if there is a history of this disease in the family.
I know when my blood sugar levels are high or low– The only way to be sure about your blood sugar levels is to test it regularly. Even very slight rise in blood-glucose levels significantly raises the risk of ischemic heart disease.
Diabetes diets are different from other people’s– Experts say that there is no need to buy special diabetic foods because they offer no special benefit as compared to the healthy things we can buy in most shops. Diabetics just need to eat healthy.
High blood sugar levels are fine for some, while for others they are a sign of diabetes– High blood-sugar levels are never normal for anybody. Some illnesses, mental stress and steroids can cause temporary hikes in blood sugar levels in people without diabetes. Anybody with higher-than-normal blood sugar levels or sugar in their urine should be checked for diabetes.
Diabetics cannot eat bread, potatoes or pasta– People with diabetes can eat starchy foods. However, they must keep an eye on the size of the portions. Whole grain starchy foods are better, as is true for people without diabetes.
One person can transmit diabetes to another person– Diabetes is not infectious or contagious.
Only older people develop type 2 diabetes– A growing number of children and teenagers are developing type 2 diabetes. Experts say that this is linked to the explosion in childhood obesity rates, poor diet, and physical inactivity.
I have to go on insulin, this must mean my diabetes is severe– people take insulin when diet alone or diet with oral or non-insulin injectable medicines do not provide good-enough diabetes control. Insulin helps diabetes control. It does not usually have anything to do with the severity of the disease.
If you have diabetes you cannot eat chocolates or sweets– People with diabetes can eat chocolates and sweets if they combine them with exercise or eat them as part of a healthy meal, provided blood glucose level stays within normal limits.
Diabetes patients are more susceptible to colds and illnesses in general– A person with diabetes with good control is no more likely to become ill with a cold or something else than other people.

Ayurveda in Diabetes Mellitus

Diabetes was known to ancient Ayurveda and Yoga experts thousands of years ago. The Indian physician Sushruta in 400 B.C. described the sweet taste of urine from affected individuals, and for many centuries to come, the sweet taste of urine was key to diagnosis. Diabetes Mellitus is known to Indians from Vedic period onwards by the name Asrava (Prameha). Diabetes is also known as Madhumeha (means passing sweet urine) in Ayurveda. The knowledge and effectiveness of diagnosis can be understood from the fact that Ayurveda has classified Diabetes (madhumeha) into 20 different types!

Types of diabetes , Causes and Symptoms

Two types of Prameha from management point of view has been described:

Krisha Pramehi (Lean Diabetic), and
Sthula pramehi (Obese Diabetic)

They are classified in Ayurveda on very similar grounds as Diabetics are classified in IDDM and NIDDM respectively.

On the very similar pattern we find the classification as

Sahaj pramehi (Congenital) and
Apathaya nimmitaj (due to overeating and wrong eating habits).

Ayurveda clearly defines diabetes. Diabetes Mellitus was known to Hindu Civilization since vedic period by the names:

Asrava(Prameha),
Madhumeha, or
Maharoga(Major Disease),

as almost all parts of the body and every cell of human physiology are affected.

It also disturbs 5 sheaths of the body –

annamaya kosha {Food sheath},
pranamayakosha{Energy sheath},
manomaya kosha{Mind Sheath},
vijnana maya kosha{IntellectualSheath} and
anandamaya kosha{Bliss Sheath}.

According to Ayurveda, prameha is divided in 4 major types (and total 21 types)

Kapha type (again divided into 10 types)
Pitta type (again divided into 6 types)
Vata type (divided into 4 types)
Juvenile diabetes for children (for unhealthy practices of parents and/or due to the sins of past-birth)

The main cause of prameha (diabetes) are lack of exercise and consumption of excess food having ushna, snigdha and guru nature. Foods that increase kapha, medhas and mootra are the major factors for prameha.

Yashcha kinchith vidhiranyepi sleshma medho moothra samjananam sa sarva: nidana vishesha.

Classification of Prameha (Diabetes) :

According to Ayurveda , Prameha (Diabetes) can be classified in two categories :-

1) Apatharpana uthaja prameha describing the lean diabetic and

2) Santharpana uthaja prameha relating the obese diabetic.

Classification according to Causes of diabetes :-

1) Sahaja prameha (congenital)

2) Apathyanimittaja prameha (due to over eating and poor habits)

Classification of Diabetes according to Dosha :-

According to Ayurveda, Prameha (diabetes) is a tridoshaja vyadhi. However the predominance of any one dosha and dooshya enables its classification into

Vataja Prameha
Pitaja Prameha, &
Kaphaja Pramehas.

They are further sub classified into 20 sub categories according to characteristics of urine, its volume, dhatu being excreted through urine.

Normally, Prameha (Diabetes- Madhumeha ) is classified by Ayurvedic Practitioners according to dosha predominance viz.

1) kapahja,

2) pithaja,

3) vathaja,

4) kapha-pithaja,

5) kapha-vathaja,

6) pitha-vathaja, and

7) vatha-pitha-kaphaja.

Sannipatha, kevala vathaja and kapha-vthaja(to some extent) and pitha-vathaja can be considered as IDDM. And others are considered as NIDDM.

1.	Sweda	Profuced Sweating
2.	Angagandham	Foul Smell of the Body
3.	Anga Shidhilathwam	Looseness of the body
4.	Sayyasna Swapnasukhabhishangithwam	Feeling of lethargy
5.	Hridayopadeham	Feeling of something coated or heaviness of hridaya.
6.	Netropadeham	Feeling of some thing coated on eyes
7.	Jhwopadeham	sensation of a coated tongue.
8.	Shravanopadeham	Feeling of coating on ears
9.	Anga ghanathwam	Heaviness of body parts
10.	Keshathivridhi	Excessive growth of hairs
11.	Nakhathivridhi	Excessive growth of Nails
12.	Sheetha priyathwam	Affinity towards cold
13.	Gala shosham	Dryness of throat
14.	Thalu shosham	Dryness of palate
15.	Asya madhuryam	Sweet taste in mouth
16.	Karadaham	Burning sensation of palms
17.	Pada daham	Burning sensation of soles
18.	Moothra madhuryam	Sweetness of urine

According to Sushruta, Dosha predominance is the primary factor in Diabetes Complication. According to him Malabandha (Constipation) is a complication of this disease as the patient has a concentration of Meda. In such cases laxatives of average doses are not effective.

According to Brihathrayees, pidika (diabetic carbuncle) is a major complication of prameha (Madhumeha).

Complications as per Dosha :-

Kaphaja

Avipakam– indigestion
Aruchi– Loss of appetite
Chardi– Vomiting tendency
Athinidra– Excessive sleep
Kasam– Cough
Peenasam– Cold with running nose

Pittaja

Vasthimehanyotoda – Pain in Bladder & urinary path
Mushkavatharanam – Pain in testes
Jwara– Fever
Daham– Burning sensation
Trishna– Thirst
Amlika– Acidity
Moorcha– Giddiness
Vitbhedanam– Loose Motion
Hridayashoola– Pain in heart region
Nidranasam– Loss of sleep

Vataja

Udavartham-Upward movement of vatha.
Kambam-Tremor
Hridgraham-Gripping pain in chest region
Lolatha-Affinity
Soolam-Pain
Anidratha-Insomnia
Sosha-Wasting
Kasam-Cough
Swasam-Difficulty to breath
Badhapureeshathwa –Constipation

According to Charaka. There are three types of prameha.

Sadhya – curable
Yapya – Palliable
Asadhya – Incurable

Sadhya: Describes patients who have been diagnosed very early in the onset of prameha (Madhumeha). In this category of patients , there can be those who are sthoola (obese) and the origin of their disease is in apathyaja (poor living habbits)

Yapya: Patients under this catagory have Pittaja prameha & certain types of kaphaja prameha.However Yapya (palliable) helps control the disease with treatment.

Asadhya: Describes the incurable version of prameha (Madhumeha) & inherited diabetes.Sahaja patients suffering from this variety are Krisha (lean)

Involvement of Ojas in Prameha (Madhumeha)

Ojas is the essence of life, an extract of the seven dhathus (Elements) Rasa(Chyle), Rakta (Blood),Mamsa (Muscles), Majja(Marrow), Asthi (Bone), Meda (Brain & Spinal Cord), Sukra (Sperm & Ovum), Ojas (Mahadhatu=Superior Dhatu) represented as bala {strength }of the body. The ojus in a healthy person determines the physical, psychic, sensory motor functions of the body. The biochemical component of the body which is reddish, white, slightly yellowish in colour residing in heart and other vital organs of the body. If ojas is distrubed, degeneration will be fast and result in decreased life span. In prameha the ojas (life essence) is expunged from the body through all navadwaras especially through urine & sweat.

Ojas gets imbalanced in prameha in two ways:

Through obstruction in blood vessels (srothorodha)
Degeneration of the body components is dhatu kshaya this can cause both cardiac & nervous system disorders.all this is ojakshaya meaning an imbalance in Ojus.

Management of Prameha (Madhumeha)

According to Ayurveda the line of treatment of prameha is strictly on individual’s constitution.

1) The prakrithi of the patient

2) Dosha predominance of disease

3) Dooshya vitiation

4) Obstruction in srothus

5) Manasika Prakrithi

6) Ahara & Vihara

7) Samskaras or Hereditary factors etc…

In general Diabetes Mellitus (Vathaja prameha) patients are advised to have Bhrimhana medication & diet which increases dhathus in the body.

Herbs useful in treatment of Diabetes :-

Specifications :-

Latin Name : Pterocarpus marsupium – leguminosae

Rasa (Taste) : Kashaya (Astrigent), Tikta (Bitter)

Guna (Characteristics ) – Lakhu (Light), Ruksha (Rough)

Veerya (Potency) – Sheeta (Cold)

Vipaka (Post digestion effect) – Katu (Pungent)

Actions according to Ayurveda :-

Rasayana : Vijaysar rejuvenates each and every cell of the body.
Raktasodhana : Vijaysar purifies the blood and removes all toxins from it.
Krimirogahar (Antihelmenthic) : Vijaysar is very useful in disease which originate from external causes like infection, worm infestation etc.
Pramehaghna : Vijaysar is useful in all disease which involve discoloration of urine including diabetes (Madhumeha).

For thousands of years, ancient physicians have been successfully treating Prameha with the Ayurvedic measures and drugs. Many drugs have already been screened for their anti-diabetic property/blood sugar lowering property. The importance of diet and exercise is also stressed in Ayurveda. The Ayurvedic diet regimens and the recipes may serve as a good replacement for the Diabetic patient. Though many of the diabetic drugs that are used today have a good sugar lowering (Hypoglycemic property they essentially act only symptomatically. The management modalities can be categorized as:

Vyaayam (Exercise),
Pathya (dietary regulation),
Panchakarma (Bio-purification procedures) and
The use of therapeutic measures (Medicines).

The herbal drugs used in the management of Prameha are bitter, astringent and pungent in taste. Some of the widely used herb apart from Vijaysar for the management of diabetes is as follows:

Eugenia jambolana:(Jamun beej churna) Dry seed powder of Jamun fruits have to be used in a dose of one-teaspoon twice/thrice daily with lukewarm water.
Gymnema sylvestre: (Gudmar patra churna) Dry leaves of this plant have to be used one teaspoon daily with lukewarm water. The leaves when chewed render the mouth tasteless to sweet for 45 min to one hour.
Pterocarpus marsupium (Vijaysar churna) Bark of this plant is available in the form of powder. Cubes or Vijaysaar glasses are also very popular & Effective. The piece of Vijaysaar is kept in water overnight or water is kept in the glass is consumed early morning on empty stomach. One should discard these cubes or glasses once there is no color change observed in water.

4.Ficus bengalensis (Nyagrodha twaka churna) This is banyan tree bark. A decoction of bark is to be prepared and consumed twice daily in a dose of 40 to 80ml. The decoction is prepared by taking around 25-50gms of bark to which 4 cups of water are to be added. It is heated to make one cup, which has to be consumed.

Shilajeet Popularly known as Rock salt, various reputed companies have Granular or powdered form of Shilajeet available. Though not very useful in reducing the blood sugar it is an excellent remedy to for loss of libido in males and in case of generalized weakness.
C. Tamal (Tejpatra) This is very commonly used as a spice in preparing food products. A diabetic patient may make a point to add the leaves of this plant in his food. Also the powder of leaves may be consumed.
Fenugreek seeds (Methi churna) Seeds of Methi have to be soaked in warm water overnight and chewed early in the morning with warm water. One may take powder of these seeds with warm water twice daily. Methi powder may be added to the wheat flour to prepare chapattis.
Momordica chirantia Karvellaka (Karella) Juice of Karela should be taken early in the morning in a quantity of 20 ml. The dried whole fruit powder can also be consumed in the dose of ½ to 1 teaspoon twice daily.
Embelica officinalis (Amala) When fresh Amla are available one may take Amla juice 20 ml daily or otherwise powder of Amla fruits may be taken twice daily.
Curcuma longa (Haridra) Haldi powder along with Amla juice is a very good combination in patients of Diabetes. It is especially useful in prevention as well as treatment of patients of Diabetic eye disease. Haldi can be put in milk as well.
Kirat tikata (Chirayata) A decoction of this plant is to be taken daily early morning. It is a very popular remedy used in all parts of the country for various skin disorders and hence forms a perfect remedy for skin infections in Diabetics .

An ayurvedic physician may advise adjuvant ayurvedic drugs. Not only do these help in lowering the blood sugar but also prevent the long-term complications of diabetes. We shall name some of these combinations/preparations:

Chandraprabha vati: In a dose of 500 mg twice or thrice daily. This is specially used in patients having Diabetes with Urinary tract infection or in females having leucorrhoea. This can be used along with Gorshuradi guggul in the same dose.
Trivang Bhasma: This is a combination of three bhasmas namely Naga, Vanga and Yashaha Bhasma. It is to be taken in a dose of 125mg twice daily available in the form of powder. It is very useful in conditions where there is excessive urination, Male sexual problems as well as to treat generalized weakness.
Dhatri Nisha: A combination of Haldi powder and Amla Rasa and has to be taken early morning and is especially useful in eye condition.
Vasant Kusumakar Rasa: A very useful tonic for diabetics especially useful in the stage of complications it has to be consumed in a dose of 125 mg twice daily. Along with having a general tonic effect it also helps in Diabetic eye condition and in preventing various conditions developing due to Nerve weakness.
Arogyavardhini
Mamajjaka Ghana vati
Jambvasava
Pathyakshadhatryadi kashaya
Panchanimba churna

Along with regular use of vijaysar, following herbs can also be used depending upon symptoms

1) Diabetes with Arthritis: Yograj guggul, freshly prepared decoction of Dasamoola, Rasna saptak, a paste of sunthi or Dasang lepa may be applied on the affected joint.

2) Diabetes with constipation: Powders like Gandharva haritaki, Isabgool, Panchaskar, Hingvastak can be used to relieve constipation.

3) Diabetes with burning sensation in the soles and palms: this can be well managed with Mangista Ghana vati, chandrakala rasa, Chandraprabha vati, pravaal pisti, Guduchi satva etc

4) Diabetes with cough: Diabetic patient suffering of chronic cough may given powders of Yasti madhu, Kantakari, Vasa, Shati etc. Ayurvedic cough syrups available in the market are not safe to be taken by a diabetic patients

5) Diabetes with excessive thirst: Excessive thirst may be managed with the use of cold infusions (heema) of Dahayanak, usheera, Chandan etc. Praval, Guduchi, may also be used.

6) Diabetes with excessive urination: excessive urination can be treated with the use of Trivang bhasma, jasad bhasma, etc

7) Generalised weakness and fatigue are the usual symptoms that can be treated with the use of herbs like shatavari, Ashvagandha, Bala Yastimadhu. Complications like tapyadi loha, Vasant kusumakar rasa are also very effective

8) Impotence is a very distressing symptom of a diabetic patient. By assessing the age of the patient they may be advised Ashwagandha, Kaucha beeja, musali etc.

Permitted food for Diabetics according to Ayurveda :

Wholesome diet habit for diabetes:
1. Shigru(drum stick)
2. Haridra(turmeric)
3. Amalaki(goose berry)
4. Shyamaka-Setaria italica (L.) Beau.
5. Kodrava- Paspalum scrobiculatum,Linn.
4. Yava(barley)
5. Godhuma(wheat)
6. Mudga(green gram)
7. Kulattha(horse gram)
8. Patola(snake gourd)
9. Karavellaka(bitter gourd)
10. Maricha(pepper)
11. Lashuna(garlic)
12. Jambu(blue berry)
13. Vyayama(exercise) etc

Prohibited diet for diabetics according to Ayurveda:
1. Kanda- moola (root-rhizome)
2. Ikshu (sugar cane juice)
3. Taila(oil)
4. Ghrita(ghee)
5. Guda(jiggery)
6. Kanjika/shukta(sour beverages)
7. Madya(alcohol)
8. Pishtanna(carbohydrate rich food)
9. Anupa mamsa(flesh of marshy land)
10. Dadhi (curd)
11. Navanna (new grains)
11. Divaswapna (day sleep etc)

7 Effective Home Remedies for Controlling Sugar

Ayurveda recommends many simple home remedies to keep diabetes under control. Incorporating one or two of these remedies into your daily diet plan can help you prevent or at the least manage your blood glucose levels.

Mix half a teaspoon of turmeric powder + 1 teaspoon of amla powder + half a tablespoon of methi seeds powder in half a glass of water and take daily in the morning on an empty stomach.
Mix honey with barley that is soaked overnight in Triphala decoction (available at Ayurveda stores) and have it several times during the day.
Juice of bitter melon or gourd can test the toughest amongst us. But when taken on an empty stomach it works wonders at balancing our blood sugar level.
Grind and mix 100gms of fenugreek (methi) seeds, 50gms of turmeric and some white pepper. Take one teaspoon of this powder with a glass of milk twice daily.
Soak one teaspoon of fenugreek overnight in water and drink it with water or milk in the morning.
A tablespoon of the juice of the Indian gooseberry mixed with a cup of fresh bitter gourd juice is said to enable the pancreas to secrete insulin, if it is taken daily for two months.
Drink a glass of water with 10 tulsi leaves, 10 belpatras and fenugreek leaves early in the morning on an empty stomach.

Yoga in Diabetes

Effectiveness of Yoga at preventing and treating diabetes is due to its emphasis of a healthy diet and lifestyle as well as its ability to balance the endocrine system, massage and tone the abdominal organs, stimulate the nervous and circulatory systems, and reduce stress. Pranayama or breathing exercises offer still greater hope.

Stress has been shown to play an important role in diabetes by elevating blood glucose levels and increasing the odds of developing certain complications, such as heart disease, stroke and infections. And having a chronic disease that requires major lifestyle changes and constant monitoring can be very stressful in itself. Research now shows that chronically elevated levels of cortisol (hormone produced by the stress response) can lead to blood sugar problems, insulin resistance, and diabetes. Yoga and meditation are the two best practices to reduce stress and yoga has been shown to dramatically lower cortisol levels in the body.

All steps of Ashtanga Yoga, viz., Yamas, Niyamas, Asanas, Pranayama, Pratyahara, Dharna, Dhyana and Samadhi, are important and should be adhered to in the same order. In health or disease, it’s always better to know and choose yoga postures and pranayama exercises according to the prakriti and vikriti of the person.

In general, exercise is a highly effective part of diabetes treatment because it increases insulin sensitivity and lowers blood sugar. Many studies have reported the beneficial effect of the practice of yoga on diabetes, confirming that the practice of postures can stimulate the insulin producing cells in the pancreas. Yoga has also been proven helpful for weight management, blood sugar control, as well as lowering of the dosage of diabetic medications.

Yoga Postures

Forward bends, twists and prone (belly down) poses all compress the abdomen to stimulate the pancreas, with prone poses being the most effective. Use forward bends and calming poses to reduce stress. In addition to acting on koshas and balancing chakras, yoga postures improve lymphatic circulation and hence body immunity. Yogic postures done with focus on breath, bandha, drishti and proper alignment are meditative and help in detoxification. Two reasons that yoga is particularly great for diabetes is that it:

Rejuvenates pancreatic cells, through alternate abdominal contractions and relaxation, during asanas (yogic postures which produce relaxation) and breathing exercises.
Reduces blood sugar due to muscular exercise involved in the asanas.

Some yogic postures provenly beneficial in diabetes are:

Surya Namaskar (sun salutation)
Setubandhasana (bridge pose)
Pavanamuktasana (wind relieving pose)
Trikonasana (triangle pose)
Tadasana (mountain pose)
Sukhasana (easy pose)
Padmasana (lotus pose)
Pashimottanasana (posterior stretch)
Ardhmatsyendrasana (half spinal twist)
Pawanmuktasana (joint freeing series)
Bhujangasana (cobra pose)
Vajrasana (thunderbolt pose)
Dhanurasana (bow pose)
Halasana (plow pose)
Naukasana (boat pose)
Bhujangasana (cobra pose)
Shavasana (corpse pose)
Anila Asana

Pranayama

Practice Pranayama to increase circulation of blood, oxygen and prana to facilitate healing and for stress reduction. Ashwin, the breath, is said to be the physician of gods. According to Vedas, it heals all maladies, with a name or without it. Recent years have witnessed a rise in interest in the healing powers of pranayama and myriad of studies have proven its positive effects on health. Pranayama has immense healing potential, and in expert hands, can work wonders. Pranayama is a great way to boost immunity. It is the bridge between the physical body and spiritual body and optimizes the flow of Prana. In general, some exercises like:

Bhastrika
Ujjayi
Kapal Bhati
Anulom Vilom
Moorchha
Vibhag Pranayama
Mahat Pranayama
Sama Vritti Pranayama
Visham Vritti Pranayama etc.

have been shown to help in diabetes. Please check the details of some breathing exercises here.

To offer the advantages of this yogic science of breathing, SAVY launched Dr Sahdev’s ‘Breathe and Heal’ Program ,a stepped program based on some very safe and healing breathing exercises in 2012.

Meditation

Meditation reduces stress, calms the mind and activates the body’s natural healing abilities. You can use one of the following by itself and/or at the beginning and end of yoga practice:

Yoga Meditation,
Third Eye Meditation
Prana Healing Meditation

Yoga Nutrition

Diabetes has been linked to the western lifestyle, as it is rarely seen in cultures that consume a natural non-processed, non-refined diet. Because of the standard Western diet that is high in sugar and dead carbohydrates that turn to sugar, the pancreas becomes exhausted and the cells are overworked. A yogic diet that is high in fiber, whole grains, legumes and vegetables is recommended to lose excess weight and stabilize blood sugar levels. With the synergetic combination of yoga, regular aerobic exercise and healthy diet diabetes can be controlled and quiet often reduced or even cured.

Some studies on raw vegetarian diet claim miraculous results.

Marma Therapy

Marmas can also be called minor chakras; they are vital points in the body through which life energy flows. There are 108 marmas and they are classified into different groups. Some marmas are very important in diabetes, and if massaged with proper pressure/technique, order, oil, duration etc., can help a lot in prevention as well as relief. Some points for diabetes are :

Indrabasti
Hridaya marma
Tala Hridaya
Urvi Marma
Stanarohita Marma
Guda Marma

Ayurvedic/ Yogic massage based on Marma Therapy is quite beneficial. This is done not only as a means to relieve stress but also for deeper therapeutic reasons. It assists in hormonal balance. Most masseurs are not trained in such specialized massage, so, finding a knowledgeable expert becomes very important.

Mudra Vigyan and Kriya Vigyan

Various hand postures (hasta mudras) are said to have very beneficial effect in health and disease.

There are five hand mudras which are quite effective in diabetes. Practice for 45 minutes daily at a stretch or three times of 15 minutes each, depending on your comfort level.

1. Surya Mudra

‘Surya’ is a Sanskrit word that means ‘Sun’. Surya mudra is known to increase the fire within the human body that in turn ensures an optimised metabolic rate. Diabetics, in general, have poor metabolic rates which results in increased sugar levels and weight gain. Regular practice of this mudra will help boost metabolic rates, thus ensuring loss of weight and lowering of sugar levels. The mudra also helps easing indigestion and associated problems.

Method:

Sit or stand straight.
Stretch your hands to your front.
Bend your ring finger so that it touches the root of thumb.
Keep the other fingers spread out, apart from each other.

2. Pran Mudra

Known as the Mudra of Life, it helps in improving the vital force of life and activates your Mooladhara Chakra or root chakra. Thus, it empowers you wholly within. The mudra, when practiced without fail, helps in detoxifying your body. Practicing this mudra alongside Apan Mudra has been proven to offer relief to those suffering from diabetes.

Method:

Sit down in a relaxed position, preferably, Padmasana (Lotus pose), with your eyes closed. Those who are uncomfortable in this position can opt for performing the mudra in Tadasana (Mountain Pose).
Focus on your breathing.
Keep your hands on your sides.
Bend your little finger and ring finger to touch the thumb.
Keep the index finger and middle finger straight.

Make sure that you perform this mudra with both the hands.

3. Apan Mudra

The mudra, also called the mudra of purification, is one of the easiest yoga mudras. It aids in striking a better balance between the elements within the human body. Thus, it ensures that the unwanted toxins are flushed out properly from your body. This mudra results in frequent urination for eliminating the wastes, thus lowering the blood sugar levels.

Method:

Sit in Padmasana or Vajrasana. Those who have knee problems can opt for standing in Tadasana.
Keep your hands stretched to your front.
Bend your thumb, middle finger, and ring finger in such a way that their tips come together.
Keep the little finger and index finger straight.

Make sure that you perform this mudra with both the hands. Combine this mudra with Vayu mudra and practice regularly for preventing and curing diabetes.

4. Gyan Mudra

Also known as Chin Mudra, it can be practiced by the diabetics to enjoy deep relaxation. It helps in relaxing the body and eliminating stress and other mind-related issues.

Method: The mudra, in general, is practiced alongside meditation poses.

Choose a sitting position, such as Padmasana, Vajrasana or Sukhasana, depending on your ease of doing so. You can even choose Tadasana, if you can concentrate without any trouble. Those who find it difficult to follow any of the yoga asanas can opt for sitting relaxingly on a chair. Keep your eyes closed.
Keep your back straight; head and chest should be held high. Focus on your breathing.
Keep your palms on your knees. Palms should face upwards.
Bend the index finger to touch the thumb’s tip, while the rest of the fingers are kept straight.
Performing this Mudra while chanting will yield more effective outcomes.

5. Linga Mudra

Lingam, in Sanskrit, means phallus – the male reproductive organ. This mudra is helpful for those who are suffering from diabetes. It helps in activating the fire element within the human body, thus generating intense heat. This, in turn, causes an increase in metabolic levels. The higher the metabolic levels, the more the chances of a person losing weight. This, automatically, lowers blood sugar levels, offering relief from diabetes.

Method:

Sit down in Padmasana, Vajrasana or Sukhasana or choose to stand in Tadasana.
Clasp your hands stretched in front of the body while keeping the fingers intertwined.
The thumb of your left hand should point upward. Circle it with the right thumb and right index finger.
Inhale and exhale normally and maintain the position for 15 minutes.

Nabho Mudra – Breathe and Heal

Also, Nabho mudra and Khechari mudra, when done properly along with certain Pranayamas, are said to have a curative effective.

Panchakarma requires strict supervision by an expert. Shatkarma is a set of six detoxifying procedures, viz., Neti, Dhauti, Nyauli, Basti, Kapal Bhati, Tratak, which are said to remove the toxins from the body and thus help the body recover from any ailment.

NADA YOGA AND MANTRAS

Mantras influence the vibratory functions of cells and help them work in specific synchronization with the brain. Over a period of time it helps to cleanse the body of toxins. These therapies must be followed with strict guidelines of diet and lifestyle.

VEDIC ASTROLOGY AND GEMSTONES

Gemstone therapy and Vedic astrology have been shown to be useful in diabetes.According to Astrology, planetary Combinations which causes Diabetes are:

Two or Three Malefic Planets if posited in Watery Signs
Two or Three Malefic Planets posited in the 6th House.
Two of Three Malefic Planets posited in Libra or in 7th house
Moon afflicted by Sun or Mars in Watery Signs
Venus afflicted by Sun or Mars in Watery Signs
If the 6th lord is posited in 8th or vice versa

Astrologically, Diabetes can be cured by wearing two gems:

Red coral, and
Yellow sapphire.

There are certain rules for wearing the stone:

1. The Gemstones shall be worn in silver.
2. Gemstones shall be energized by purification.
3. The Gemtones shall be worn in right hand.
4. Gemstones can be worn in a single pendant where Yellow Sapphire shall be fitted on the right hand side and Red Coral on the left hand side.

At SAVY we offer Yoga Therapy for Diabetes Mellitus and other ailments.

Also, please look up here for upcoming workshops, or

Contact Us

Learn all that directly under expert guidance of one of the most qualified faculty in the world! Your Yoga Teacher – Dr Jitender K Sahdev E-RYT 500 D.Sc., Ph.D.,MD, is a Yoga Therapist /Yoga Teacher in London with over 37,000 hours of Traditional Yoga teaching experience. A Surgeon by profession from India with almost three decades of experience in Medicine, he utilizes Yoga as a complementary therapy for optimizing the health and wellness of his clients and for easing symptoms associated with disease. He trained under doyens of Yoga in India for almost four decades. He is a Yoga Therapist in Canada.

Sign up today and live life to your full potential.

We provide a FREE 15- minute Consultation to dispel your doubts and answer your queries.

Call or email for any inquiries.

Dr Jitender K Sahdev

Note : Yoga Therapy is best administered in an individualized manner though some generalized guidelines have been provided for all.

You should check with your health care professional before starting this or any new therapy or exercise program or breathing routine. This is especially important if you have any pre-existing health conditions, such as high blood pressure, migraines or heart or lung ailments. Women who are pregnant or think they might be pregnant should consult their physician before performing any of the breathing or physical exercises or undertaking any therapy program.

The information contained in the program is not intended to serve as a replacement for professional medical advice. Any use of the information in these programs/ workshops is at the reader’s discretion, risk and responsibility. The studio, author and the publisher specifically disclaim any and all liability arising directly or indirectly from the use or application of any information contained herein. A health care professional should be consulted regarding your specific situation.

Another Study Establishes Role of Yoga in Breast Cancer

Dr Sahdev's Breathe and Heal Program, Yoga, Yoga Therapy

Nov 112014

Another Study Establishes Role of Yoga in Breast Cancer

For thousands of years, Yogis have known how to control body processes and functions through yoga. Regular yoga practice is said to retard the process of aging and improve quality of life. Even in modern times, many of the well-known exponents of yoga are known to lead healthy lives well into their nineties.

Recent years have seen an increased interest in role yoga can play in health as well disease. With each passing day, more and more studies are putting a stamp of authenticity on what yogis have been claiming for a long time. Yoga Therapy is a new upcoming modality with a lot of substance and potential to it. Yoga is capable of helping with prevention as well as in challenging the unhindered march of the beast of disease.

Very recently, research team at the Tom Baker Cancer Centre (TBCC) in Alberta and the University of Calgary Department of Oncology has published a study that establishes yoga has significant potential and should be further explored as a beneficial physical activity option for cancer survivors. The study found that telomeres, which are protein complexes at the end of chromosomes, maintain their length in breast cancer survivors who have psychological intervention, while telomeres shortened in women who were not involved in support groups. Shortened telomeres are associated with diseases, while longer ones are thought to help protect the body. In the study, in the Mindfulness-Based Cancer Recovery group, the women attended a 90-minute group session about meditation and Hatha yoga for eight weeks. They were also told to meditate and do yoga at home daily. In the Supportive Expressive Therapy group, the women met for 12 weeks for 90 minutes to talk about their concerns and feelings. It allowed them to express their emotions, rather than stifle them. Participants randomly placed in the control group attended one, six-hour stress management seminar, but did not experience any other interventions. It was seen that the women in both of the active groups where they learned meditation or yoga, or did the support groups, they all maintained their telomere lengths, so they were basically the same. But, the women in the control group who had no intervention — their telomeres became shorter..

Telomeres, Cancer and Aging

There has been a small group of scientists, gerontologists, studying the reasons we age and fall sick, for many years – how, and can we, slow down or control the process. More and more researchers are joining the field. Telomeres are protective pieces of DNA material at the ends of every chromosome in every cell in the body. Telomeres, like protective caps at the end of our shoelaces, function to protect our genome integrity and preserve cell function. As we age our telomeres shorten. Scientific studies have shown that short telomeres are associated with age related decline and dysfunction. Evidence clearly shows that people with long telomeres age healthier and live longer.

A telomere is a region of repetitive DNA at the end of a chromosome, which protects the end of the chromosome from deterioration. A telomere is a repeating DNA sequence (for example, TTAGGG) at the end of the body’s chromosomes. The telomere can reach a length of 15,000 base pairs. Telomeres function by preventing chromosomes from losing base pair sequences at their ends. They also stop chromosomes from fusing to each other. However, each time a cell divides, some of the telomere is lost (usually 25-200 base pairs per division). Telomeres protect a cell’s chromosomes from fusing with each other or rearranging—abnormalities which can lead to cancer—and so cells are normally destroyed when their telomeres are consumed. Most cancers are the result of “immortal” cells which have ways of evading this programmed destruction. Telomeres have been compared with the plastic tips on shoelaces, because they keep chromosome ends from fraying and sticking to each other, which would destroy or scramble an organism’s genetic information. When the telomere becomes too short, the chromosome reaches a “critical length” and can no longer replicate. This means that a cell becomes “old” and dies by a process called apoptosis.

Telomere activity is controlled by two mechanisms: erosion and addition. Erosion, as mentioned, occurs each time a cell divides. Addition is determined by the activity of telomerase.

Telomerase, also called telomere terminal transferase, is an enzyme made of protein and RNA subunits that elongates chromosomes by adding TTAGGG sequences to the end of existing chromosomes. Telomerase is found in fetal tissues, adult germ cells, and also tumor cells. Telomerase activity is regulated during development and has a very low, almost undetectable activity in somatic (body) cells. Because these somatic cells do not regularly use telomerase, they age. The result of aging cells is an aging body. If telomerase is activated in a cell, the cell will continue to grow and divide. This “immortal cell” theory is important in two areas of research: aging and cancer.

Cellular aging, or senescence, is the process by which a cell becomes old and dies. It is due to the shortening of chromosomal telomeres to the point that the chromosome reaches a critical length. Cellular aging is analogous to a wind up clock. If the clock stays wound, a cell becomes immortal and constantly produces new cells. If the clock winds down, the cell stops producing new cells and dies. Our cells are constantly aging. Being able to make the body’s cells live forever certainly creates some exciting possibilities.

Elizabeth Blackburn, Carol Greider, and Jack Szostak were awarded the 2009 Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine for the discovery of how chromosomes are protected by telomeres and the enzyme telomerase.

Yoga in Cancer

At SAVY, we have always maintained that Yoga has a big role to play in all diseases, including cancer. Modern Science has only started discovering the wonders that can be achieved with Yoga and Pranayama, the science of breathing exercises, very recently. Some of the recent studies have concluded:

Brain Growth: According to a Harvard study, when controlled breathing is used during meditation, it can actually increase the size of the brain. Meditation that involves focusing one’s attention on the breath has the capacity to increase cortical thickness. Please click at the link to read about some major studies done on the effect of meditation on brain. Another paper mentions the role of meditation in improving the quality of life.
Prevent Heart Attack: Low heart rate variability has been associated with a greater risk of heart attacks. A 2012 study found that deep breathing practices can improve heart rate variability in healthy test subjects.
Lower Stress: Shallow breathing is a sign of stress and ‘fight or flight’ sign of the body. Sitting quietly and focussing on your breathing helps your body achieve a state of calm, shifting from functioning from sympathetic nervous system ( characterized by drive, fight, flight and ambition) to the parasympathetic nervous system (relax and receive).
Get rid of Negative Emotions: We feel short of breath during times of panic or stress. This is the body’s natural reaction to a perceived threat. Focusing on breathing can help to alleviate anxiety, symptoms of depression, and other negative emotions. Last year, Australian researchers found that deep breathing 30 minutes before a performance effectively reduced musicians’ performance anxiety.
Reduce Examination Phobia: A 2007 study published in the journal ‘Teaching and Learning in Medicine’ found that students who practiced deep-breathing meditation before an exam reported perceiving less anxiety, self-doubt and concentration loss than the students who did not practice deep breathing .
Lower Blood Pressure: Taking slow, deep breaths for just a few minutes a day could help lower your blood pressure, according to Dr. David Anderson of the National Institutes of Health. While researchers have observed that slow, deep breaths can help to relax and temporarily dilate blood vessels, they don’t yet know precisely why deep breathing has the capacity to cause a lasting drop in blood pressure.
Inflammation and Immune Function: A brief daily yogic meditation intervention may reverse the pattern of increased NF-κB-related transcription of pro-inflammatory cytokines and decreased IRF1-related transcription of innate antiviral response genes previously observed in healthy individuals confronting a significant life stressor.
Gene Expression: A recent study found that mind-body practices like yoga, meditation and deep breathing exercises can trigger the body’s “relaxation response,” a physiological state of deep relaxation that alters the way it responds to stress. This state can counter the negative effects of stress for people with health conditions like anxiety and hypertension, by actually altering the expression of genes in the immune system.
Cellular Aging: A pilot study published in International Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry found that brief daily meditation practices by family dementia caregivers can lead to improved mental and cognitive functioning and lower levels of depressive symptoms. This improvement is accompanied by an increase in telomerase activity suggesting improvement in stress-induced cellular aging.

There is also evidence for role of yoga breathing in asthma and more evidence is accumulating. This recent study is another milestone in establishing the role of Yoga in health and disease.

SAVY’s Crusade Against Diseases

Yoga and Ayurveda offer many ways of helping cancer patients. SAVY offers programs based on Yoga and effective breathing techniques, validated by the stringent test of time and the millions who tried them, and backed and refined by Dr Sahdev’s almost three decades of superlative clinical experience at the fore-front of main-stream Medicine, inspired by his work in Surgical Oncology, Neurosurgery and other Super Specialities at premier medical institutes in India, his study and work in other Alternative modalities and Yoga, and an input of thousands of hours of educated and qualified clinical research and its deep analysis in India, these breathing and other techniques have been proved to actually deliver!

Right from the day of SAVY‘s inception, we’ve put benefits of all the advanced and superlative skills and knowledge on offer for the benefit of humanity under our Yoga Therapy programs, specifically including:

Some highlights of management of breast cancer from Yoga point of view have been discussed here.

We offer very well-structured, effective, advanced and result-oriented programs for Cancer care as well as other diseases.

WHAT YOU CAN DO

Do Yoga regularly. Yoga has been shown to go a long way in boosting immunity. Join our targeted, very well-structured programs to help you achieve that end.
Learn breathing exercises from a knowledgeable teacher and practice them regularly. Pranayama has been shown to have a lot of healing effect. We offer training in Pranayama in Dr Sahdev’s ‘Breathe and Heal’ Program. Some of the breathing exercises for cancer are given here.
Practice breast self-massage as well as use professional help. Marma massages, done properly, help with lymphatic drainage and open up blockages in energy channels.
Exercise regularly using movements that involve the shoulders and build torso and upper arm strength.
Wear comfortable, natural fiber (i.e. cotton) underwear. Bras that have under wires or that are strapless should not be used as they will make the breasts sag and allow toxins to accumulate in breast tissue.
Use aluminium-free deodorant. Empirical studies show that aluminum can enter the blood and lymph systems through the skin and severely challenge the immune system.
Avoid hydrogenated fats like margarine and vegetable shortening.
Eat a vegetarian diet with little or no saturated or mono-saturated fats, refined sugars, dairy products, meats, and caffeine, and high in whole grains (i.e. brown rice, oats, barley) , green and orange vegetables (i.e. carrots, squashes, kale, broccoli, cabbage, etc.).
Eat soy-based products, such as soy milk, tofu, and tempeh occasionally.
Choose to eat organic foods and use environmentally friendly cleaning products. Many synthetic chemicals (including what is found in fertilizers, pesticides. germicides) mimic hormones and cause physical and emotional havoc.
Use supplements such as vitamins E, C, and B-complex as well as minerals. Eat mineral-rich sea vegetables or take mineral supplements particularly when your stress level is high.
Use hormone-free contraception. Avoid long-term use of the pill and synthetic hormone therapies when possible.
Expose your breasts to sun and moon light.
Sleep in complete darkness.
Color TVs, microwave ovens, and computer screens emit radiation that can damage tissue.
Each body type has its own, unique beauty. Seek that out in yourself and become it.
Sensuality and sexuality are not opposed to or the enemy of spirituality. Celebrate life!

At SAVY we offer special sessions for Yoga for Breast Cancer and other programs for Cancer Care.

Please check the dates for upcoming workshops here.

Learn all that directly under expert guidance of one of the most qualified faculty in the world! Your Yoga Teacher – Dr Jitender K Sahdev E-RYT 500, RCYT, RPYT, D.Sc. (Alternative Medicine), Ph.D. (Alternative Medicine),MD (Alternative Medicine), M.B.,B.S., Fellow in Surgery and Surgical Oncology, the most qualified and experienced Yoga Therapist and Yoga Teacher in London ON and Canada. A Surgeon by profession from India, he started his Surgical career in a Cancer Hospital in India and in his Surgical career over almost next three decades, performed thousands of breast cancer and other surgeries. He utilizes Yoga as a stand-alone as well as complementary therapy for optimizing the health and wellness of his clients, for easing symptoms associated with disease, and more…. He trained under doyens of Yoga in India for almost four decades. He is a Yoga Therapist in Canada.

Sign up today and live life to your full potential.

Please check the dates for ‘Yoga in Breast Cancer’ workshop with the studio.

We provide a FREE 30- minute Consultation to dispel your doubts and answer your queries. Please fill up the form below and send to fix up your FREE Consultation.

Call or email for any inquiries.

Dr Jitender K Sahdev

Note : You should check with your health care professional before starting this or any new therapy or exercise program or breathing routine. This is especially important if you have any pre-existing health conditions, such as high blood pressure, migraines or heart or lung ailments. Women who are pregnant or think they might be pregnant should consult their physician before performing any of the breathing or physical exercises or undertaking any therapy program.

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Yoga for Breast Cancer

Yoga, Yoga Therapy

Oct 042014

Yoga for Breast Cancer

SOME FACTS ABOUT BREAST CANCER

The highest incidence of breast cancer is found in Finland, Sweden, Great Britain, Canada and the United States, countries with a high level in milk consumption.
Breast cancer is practically not present in societies where animal milk is not consumed, especially in Eastern countries.
There is evidence to suggest that wearing tight bras for prolonged hours daily increases the risk of breast cancer. Women who wear bra 24 hours a day may face up to 125-times higher cancer risk.
No breasts are perfectly symmetrical, shapes and sizes of each pair may vary.
Fibrous and fatty tissue in the breast is normal. Changes in breast texture and ptosis are a part of moving through the years.
There is no family history of breast cancer in 80% of breast cancer cases.
90% of breast lumps are not malignant. But they should always be checked. Early detection of breast cancer is vitally important.
Mammograms are tools for early detection, not prevention.
Breast cancer incidence increased by 50% when hydrogenated oils (i.e. margarine) became common in diets.

WHAT IS BREAST CANCER?

Cancer can be explained as abnormal growth of cells due to uncontrolled division. Breast cancer is a malignant tumour that starts in the cells of the breast; malignant means that it can spread, or metastasize, to other parts of the body. Most often, breast cancer starts in cells that line the ducts, which are the tubes that carry milk from the glands to the nipple; this type of breast cancer is called ductal carcinoma. Cancer can also start in the cells of the lobules, which are the groups of glands that form milk; this type of cancer is called lobular carcinoma. Both ductal carcinoma and lobular carcinoma can be in situ, which means that the cancer is still where it started and has not grown into surrounding tissues. They can also be invasive, which means they have grown into surrounding tissues. Less common types of breast cancer can also develop. These include inflammatory breast cancer, Paget disease of the nipple and triple negative and basal-like breast cancers. Rare types of breast cancer include non-Hodgkin lymphoma and sarcoma. Every cell contains a DNA which is copied into the new cell; in cancer, there are mistakes in copying. There are error-correcting proteins in cells which prevent these mistakes and render an exact copy. When mutations occur in these error-correcting proteins they cause cancers which may cause enhanced multiplication. These mutations can manifest as errors in enzymes or specific markers like p53, BRCA1, BRCA2 in case of breast cancers. Mutations can be inherited or acquired.

1-Chest Wall; 2-Pectoralis major; 3-Lobule; 4-Nipple; 5-Areola; 6-Lactiferous duct; 7-Fatty tissue; 8-Skin

Cancer cells keep on replicating as opposed to normal cells which die after their purpose is served. To ensure that the cell completes its life span there are protective pathways, like P13K/AKT or RAS/MEK/ERK pathway. Mutations may also occur along this pathways, like the PTEN protein which turns the pathway off for each cell when the cell is required to die.

PRESENTATION

The first sign of breast cancer often is a breast lump or an abnormal mammogram. You might feel a firm, not necessarily painful, lump in your breast while showering or doing a regular breast self-exam. Also lumps in the armpits are a warning sign. While a lump is the most common sign of breast cancer, other noncancerous conditions, like cysts, can also cause breast lumps. Women with a rare form of the disease called inflammatory breast cancer can develop a red, pink, or purple rash across part of their breast. The skin of the breast might also appear puckered, like the skin of an orange, peau d’orange. If you notice an unusual lump in your breast, report it to your doctor and have it checked.

Male breast cancer is not uncommon and must be taken seriously. To summarize, signs of possible breast cancer are:

A lump
Ongoing pain
Size changes or swelling
Redness, rashes or crusting in the breast, armpit or collarbone areas
Changes in the nipples – discharge or inversion
Puckering of the skin.

DIAGNOSIS AND TESTS
Breast examination can be done by self or by a trained medical practitioner. Mammogram, which uses a series of X-rays to show images of your breast tissue, is currently the best imaging technique for detecting tumors. Ultrasound uses sound waves, which bounce off the breast to create a picture of the tissue inside. An ultrasound is not used to screen for breast cancer; it can help spot tumors in dense breasts that don’t show up clearly on a mammogram. An ultrasound can also help the doctor find out whether a growth discovered during a mammogram or breast exam is cancerous. Biopsy, where a small amount of the lump material or fluid is excised with the help of a needle and examined under the microscope. FNAC (Fine-needle aspiration and cytology) is the most common form of biopsy where a thin, hollow needle is used to withdraw cells from the lump and is sent to the lab for analysis. Surgical biopsy which is the most accurate method for confirming cancer. The surgeon removes a part (incisional biopsy) or whole (excisional biopsy) of the breast lump depending on the size and sent to the lab for histo-pathological examination. Estrogen and progesterone receptor tests is done if the biopsy confirms the cancer. This test helps determine the treatment protocol.

BREAST CANCER STAGES

TNM Staging (Tumours, Nodes, Metastasis) is used to find the breast cancer stage. Breast cancer stages range from early, curable breast cancer to metastatic breast cancer. After breast cancer is diagnosed, doctors do tests to find out whether cancer cells have spread to other parts of the body. Then they assign a stage, which helps them treat the cancer. In stages 0 and 1, the cancer hasn’t spread beyond the breast. Stage 2 cancer may have spread to the lymph nodes. Stage 3 tumors have spread to the lymph nodes, and possibly the chest wall. Stage 4 means cancer has reached other, remote parts of the body.

METASTASIS

Metastasis is a process when the cancer cells spread through the blood stream and get localized at other organs and cause secondary tumors. Common sites include bone, liver, lung and brain. The manifestation can be known by bone or joint pain, unexplained weight loss, jaundice, neurological symptoms etc.

TREATMENTS AVAILABLE

Breast cancers that are influenced by hormones estrogen and progesterone are treated with HRT (Hormone replacement therapy) and radiation . Surgery is performed where the tumors are devoid of hormone receptors. Surgical procedure can vary from simple Lumpectomy (removal of lump) to partial or complete removal of the breasts (simple mastectomy , partial or segmental mastectomy, modified radical mastectomy). Breast reconstructive surgery is offered for women after radical mastectomy. Surgery is generally followed by chemotherapy and radiation.

RISK FACTORS

Lifestyle-related Risk Factors

Drinking alcohol: Drinking alcohol is clearly linked to an increased risk of developing breast cancer. The risk increases with the amount of alcohol consumed.
Being overweight or obese: Being overweight or obese after menopause increases breast cancer risk. Higher estrogen levels and higher blood insulin levels have been linked to some cancers, including breast cancer.
Drinking Milk: Breast cancer is practically not present in societies where animal milk is not consumed, especially in Eastern countries. Consumption of more than 2 glassfuls of milk has been shown to increase the risk of breast cancer.
Physical activity: Evidence is growing that physical activity in the form of exercise, even as little as 1¼ to 2½ hours per week of brisk walking, reduces breast cancer risk. To reduce your risk of breast cancer, the American Cancer Society recommends that adults get at least 150 minutes of moderate intensity or 75 minutes of vigorous intensity activity each week (or a combination of these), preferably spread throughout the week.
Having children: Women who have not had children or who had their first child after age 30 have a slightly higher breast cancer risk overall.
Birth control: Studies have found that women using oral contraceptives (birth control pills) have a slightly higher risk of breast cancer than women who have never used them. Once the pills are stopped, this risk seems to go back to normal over time. Women currently using birth-control shots seem to have an increase in breast cancer risk, but it appears that there is no increased risk in women 5 years after they stop getting the shots. Birth control implants, IUD, skin patch, vaginal ring also use hormones that could fuel breast cancer growth.
Hormone therapy after menopause: Hormone therapy, post-menopausal hormone therapy(PHT), hormone replacement therapy (HRT), or menopausal hormone therapy (MHT), estrogen replacement therapy (ERT) or just estrogen therapy (ET), Combined hormone therapy (HT) after menopause increases the risk of breast cancer. The use of bioidentical hormone therapy should be thought to have the same health risks as any other type of hormone therapy. Long term use of estrogen therapy (ET) has been found to increase the risk of ovarian and breast cancer in some studies.
Breastfeeding: Breastfeeding may slightly lower breast cancer risk, especially if it’s continued for 1½ to 2 years.

Breast Cancer Risk Factors That Cannot Be Changed

Having one or many risk factors does not mean that you are sure to get the disease.

Being a woman: Simply being a woman is the main risk factor for breast cancer. Breast caner is about 100 times more common in women than in men.
Getting older: Most invasive breast cancers are found in women age 55 and older.
Certain inherited genes: About 5% to 10% of breast cancer cases are thought to be hereditary, meaning that they result directly from gene defects (called mutations) passed on from a parent. Genetic testing can be done to look for mutations in the BRCA1 and BRCA2genes (or less commonly in other genes such as PTEN or TP53).
- BRCA1 and BRCA2: The most common cause of hereditary breast cancer is an inherited mutation in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes. In normal cells, these genes help prevent cancer by making proteins that help keep the cells from growing abnormally. In some families with BRCA1 mutations the lifetime risk of breast cancer is as high as 80%, but on average this risk seems to be in the range of 55% to 65%. For BRCA2 mutations the risk is lower, around 45%. Breast cancers linked to these mutations are more often found in younger women and more often in both breasts than cancers not linked to these mutations. Women with these inherited mutations also have a higher risk of developing other cancers, mainly ovarian cancer. In the United States, BRCA mutations are more common in Jewish people of Ashkenazi (Eastern Europe) origin than in other racial and ethnic groups, but anyone can have them.
- Changes in other genes: These gene mutations are much less common and most of them do not increase the risk of breast cancer as much as the BRCA genes. They are seldom causes of inherited breast cancer.
- ATM: Inheriting one abnormal copy of this gene has been linked to a high rate of breast cancer in some families.
- TP53: People with Li-Fraumeni syndrome caused by this gene have an increased risk of breast cancer, as well as some other cancers such as leukemia, brain tumors, and sarcomas (cancers of bones or connective tissue).
- CHEK2: Li-Fraumeni syndrome can also be caused by inherited mutations in the CHEK2gene.
- PTEN: Mutations in this gene causes Cowden syndrome, a rare disorder that puts people at higher risk for both non-cancer and cancer tumors in the breasts, as well as growths in the digestive tract, thyroid, uterus, and ovaries.
- CDH1: Women with mutations in this gene also have an increased risk of invasive lobular breast cancer.
- STK11: People with Peutz-Jeghers syndrome caused by inherited mutation of this gene have pigmented spots on their lips and in their mouths, polyps in the urinary and gastrointestinal tracts, and a higher risk of many types of cancer, including breast cancer.
- PALB2: Mutations in PALB2 gene can lead to a higher risk of breast cancer.
Having a family history of breast cancer: Most women (about 8 out of 10) who get breast cancer do not have a family history of the disease, but women who have close blood relatives with breast cancer have a higher risk of the disease, having a first-degree relative (mother, sister, or daughter) with breast cancer almost doubles a woman’s risk, and women with a father or brother who have had breast cancer also have a higher risk of breast cancer.
Having a personal history of breast cancer: A woman with cancer in one breast has a higher risk of developing a new cancer in the other breast or in another part of the same breast.
Your race and ethnicity: White women are slightly more likely to develop breast cancer. African-American, Asian, Hispanic, and Native American women have a lower risk of developing breast cancer.
Having dense breast tissue: Women with dense breasts on mammogram have a risk of breast cancer that is 1.2 to 2 times that of women with average breast density.
Certain benign breast conditions: Women diagnosed with certain benign breast conditions may have a higher risk of breast cancer. Proliferative lesions without atypia (cell abnormalities) like Usual ductal hyperplasia (without atypia), Fibroadenoma, Sclerosing adenosis, Several papillomas (called papillomatosis) and Radial scar seem to raise a woman’s risk of breast cancer slightly. Proliferative lesions with atypia, like Atypical ductal hyperplasia (ADH) and Atypical lobular hyperplasia (ALH), raise breast cancer risk by 3½ to 5 times higher. Women with lobular carcinoma in situ (LCIS) have a much higher risk of developing cancer in either breast.
Starting menstruation (periods) before age 12: Women who started menstruating early (before age 12) have a slightly higher risk of breast cancer.
Going through menopause after age 55: Women who had menopause later (after age 55) have a slightly higher risk of breast cancer.
Having radiation to your chest: Women who as children or young adults were treated with radiation therapy to the chest for another cancer (such as Hodgkin disease or non-Hodgkin lymphoma) have a significantly higher risk for breast cancer.
Exposure to diethylstilbestrol (DES): Women who took DES during pregnancy may also have a slightly higher risk of breast cancer.

Factors with Unclear Effects on Breast Cancer Risk

There are some things that might be risk factors for breast cancer, but the research is not yet clear about whether there really is a link.

Diet and Vitamins: A diet low in fat, low in red meat and processed meat, and high in fruits and vegetables has health benefits. Studies have found that breast cancer is less common in countries where the typical diet is low in total fat, low in polyunsaturated fat, and low in saturated fat. It’s clear that calories do count, and fat is a major source of calories.
Chemicals in the environment: Compounds in the environment that have estrogen-like properties, for example, substances found in some plastics, certain cosmetics and personal care products, pesticides, and PCBs (polychlorinated biphenyls) could affect breast cancer risk.
Tobacco smoke: Studies have shown that heavy smoking over a long-time is linked to a higher risk of breast cancer. Secondhand smoke contains chemicals that, in high concentrations, may cause breast cancer.
Night work: Some studies have suggested that women who work at night, such as nurses on a night shift, might have an increased risk of breast cancer.

Controversial Breast Cancer Risk Factors

There are many factors that research has shown are not linked to breast cancer.

Antiperspirants: Based on the available evidence, there is little reason to believe that antiperspirants increase the risk of breast cancer.
Bras: Some literature has suggested that bras cause breast cancer by obstructing lymph flow. Wired bras are also linked to higher risk. Though some literature suggests higher risk with the prolonged use of bras, there is no good scientific or clinical support for this claim.
Induced abortion: Studies have provided very strong data that neither induced abortions nor spontaneous abortions have an overall effect on the risk of breast cancer.
Breast implants: Several studies have found that breast implants do not increase the risk of breast cancer, although silicone breast implants can cause scar tissue to form in the breast.

AT RISK POPULATION

The disease rarely affects women under 25 years of age. 1 in every 8 women is at the risk of developing cancer sometime in life. Lack of child bearing or breast feeding, late pregnancy are risk factors. Caucasian women are more likely to develop breast cancer than are black or Hispanic women. High fat diet, alcohol intake, tobacco use, exposure to radiation, genetic susceptibility (BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutations) and parental history, overuse of contraceptive pills, hormone replacement therapy are additional risk factors.

AYURVEDA/ YOGA PERSPECTIVE

Tumor is described in the 11th Chapter of “Nidan Sthan” of the noted Ayurveda scripture “Sushrut Samhita” as:

Gatra Pradese Kwacita Deva Dosa¡, Samurchita Mansamabhipradusya |
Vrattam Sthiram Mandarujam Mahantamanalpamulam Ciravraddhayapakam||
Kurvanti Mansopacayam Ca Ïopham, Tadarbudam Ïastravido Vadanti |
Vatena, Pittena, Kaphena Capi, Raktena Mansena Ca Medasa Va ||
Tajjayate Tasya Ca Lakshanani, Granthe¡ Samanani Sada Bhavanti |

Meaning

In some part of the body, the excess of vata and other doshas cause unusual growth which may consist of flesh and tissues, which may or may not cause little pain but spreads deeper inside and imbalances the important dhatus (chemicals), and which does not burst on its own and matures slowly. This arbuda looks like a granthi (knot or hard acne) and which is a manifestation of abnormal tridoshas (vata, pitta and kapha) and infected blood, myoplams/tissues (majja), flesh or any cells. It may sometimes be caused by infections (leading to tridoshaj imbalance and abnormal changes) in a wounded or internally injured part of the body, which malign the blood, serum, lymph, or body tissues, etc.

Breast cancer is loosely correlated to the reference of Stana Arbuda mentioned in Ayurveda texts (Stan = Breast, Arbud == hard lump ) by certain scholars. Stan Arbud is categorized as per Dosha :

Vata type
Pitta type
Kapha type
Vata, pitta and kapha type or Tridoshaj

Uncontrolled growth of cells occurs from Vata derangement. The process of cells transforming into mutated ones happens because of Pitta imbalance. The inability of the cells to complete their life span and die or go on without perishing can be termed as Kapha imbalance. These stages can occur individually or in combination (Tridoshaj). Breast cancers, or for that matter, any cancer, occurs because of enzyme disruption and/ or mutations in the body. Certain mutations may be Karmic (genetic dispositions) but most of them are acquired due to our ignorance and lack of knowledge about food and lifestyles. Erratic eating habits disrupt and cause enzymatic changes. It is recommended in most ancient cultures to be at ease and refrain from any physical work for first 3 days of menstrual cycles to establish a good blood flow. Having sex at the right age releases certain enzymes in your body that promote health. A good sexual intercourse activates the chakras which helps promote health. Proper implementation of knowledge of Tantra Yoga is a great preventive and remedial measure to hormonal disorders. The management of Breast Cancer is done at all the five levels of the Pancha Kosha.

Annamaya Kosha	Yoga postures like Surya Namaskar, Shalabhasana, Naukasana, Simhasana, Dhanurasana. Relaxation and Balancing Techniques like Yoga Nidra, Marma Therapy. Kriyas like Shatkarma. Mudras like Gyan Mudra, Nabho Mudra, Ayurvedic medicines and herbs etc.
Pranamaya Kosha	Nadishodana Pranayama, Suryabhedana Pranayama, Kapaal Bhaati Pranayama and Bhramari Pranayama etc.
Manomaya Kosha	Concentrative or Mindful Meditation through breath, AUM meditation, Nada Yoga, Mantra Yoga, Tantra Yoga etc
Vignanamaya Kosha	Conceptual corrections and Yogic Counseling
Anandamaya Kosha	Discovering bliss through karma etc

YOGA/ AYURVEDA RECOMMENDATIONS

Three-fold approach to treatment is recommended:

Aaahar (good diet)
Vihaar (good lifestyle)
Aushadhi (medicine).

These have to be followed in the same order.

Aahar

In Yoga/ Ayurvedic Nutrition, aahaar (diet) is decided individually, according to types and sub-types of constitution of every person. Still, some general guidelines can be followed by everyone:

Eat at proper time, have fruits for breakfast or dinner at least 3 times a week. Whole fruits should be eaten (no juices except Pomegranate) without adding salt or sugar. Unripe fruits must not be consumed. Fruits should never be combined with milk. Dairy products should be avoided or at least their consumption should be reduced. Also fruits should not be eaten after meals except banana which should not be consumed on empty stomach. Lunch should comprise of whole grains cooked properly. The use of microwave and other unnatural ways of cooking must be avoided. One should not sleep after meals. One should not eat after sunset. Eating immediately before sleeping interferes with GH secretion and hence the repair processes of body. Go to bed around 10 pm. Staying awake between 1 am and 2 am deranges melatonin secretion and increases risk of cancer. One should get up before sunrise. Avoid extra salt and refined sugar.

Fasting

Fasting has always been a part of the Vedic culture. It has been many health benefits. A recent study confirmed that fasting for three days can regenerate entire immune system! Several studies have also confirmed the benefits of fasting.

One characteristic of cancer cells is that they need up to 30 times more food than a normal cell. Just by denying yourself food on certain days, you could put down the level of cancerous cells. In every ‘mandala‘ of 40-48 day, human body does not need food for three days. In general, ekadashi, or 11th day, after full moon and new moon is more suitable for fasting. Fasting on these days opens doors to health and spiritual growth.

Vihaar should be according to Yamas and Niyamas, which should be followed by everyone. They guide us about ways to lead a stress-free life.

YOGA

Yoga helps in all form of cancers. Yoga is important for prevention as well as an adjunct in therapy. Studies have proven the beneficial role of yoga in prevention as well as during treatment. All steps of Ashtanga Yoga, viz., Yamas, Niyamas, Asanas, Pranayama, Pratyahara, Dharna, Dhyana and Samadhi, are important and should be adhered to in the same order. In health or disease, it’s always better to know and choose yoga postures and pranayama exercises according to the prakriti and vikriti of the person.

YOGA POSTURES

In addition to acting on koshas and balancing chakras, yoga postures improve lymphatic circulation and hence body immunity. Yogic postures done with focus on breath, bandha, drishti and proper alignment are meditative and help in detoxification. Some yogic postures beneficial in breast cancer are:

Paschimottanasana
Shalabhasana
Naukasana
Simhasana
Dhanurasana
Surya Namaskar etc.

Shakti Chalana Kriya we teach, also help in correcting and balancing the energy system.

PRANAYAMA

Ashwin, the breath, is said to be the physician of gods. According to Vedas, it heals all maladies, with a name or without it. Recent years have witnessed a rise in interest in the healing powers of pranayama and myriad of studies have proven its positive effects on health. Pranayama has immense healing potential, and in expert hands, can work wonders. Pranayama is a great way to boost immunity. It is the bridge between the physical body and spiritual body and optimizes the flow of Prana. Some exercises like:

Ujjayi
Bhastrika
Kapal Bhati
Anulom Vilom
Vibhag Pranayama
Mahat Pranayama
Sama Vritti Pranayama
Visham Vritti Pranayama etc.

have been shown to help in cancer. Please check the details of some breathing exercises here. To offer the advantages of this yogic science of breathing, SAVY launched Dr Sahdev’s ‘Breathe and Heal’ Program ,a stepped program based on some very safe and healing breathing exercises, more than a year back. Fight Cancer program at SAVY, which has a very safe and stepped program of breathing exercises – DSBH Therapy , at its crux, is a very safe program for cancer care – for prevention, as adjunct therapy of cancer patients, cancer survivors and even for families of cancer patients.

MEDITATION

Meditation acts at deeper levels of the mind and detoxifies all koshas. Meditation technique should be chosen carefully. Even simple Concentrative Meditation Techniques (CM), like focusing on breath, sound, mantra, image, TM etc., have been found to be useful in cancer care. Mindfulness meditation (MM) also has been shown to have very positive effect in health and recovery. A recent study confirmed the beneficial role of Yoga and meditation in breast cancer patients. At SAVY, we have been working on Yoga with Intention in Meditation, in which the intention to heal is introduced while the subject is in a meditative stage. It has a much deeper healing effect.

MARMA THERAPY AND MASSAGE

Marmas can also be called minor chakras; they are vital points in the body through which life energy flows. There are 108 marmas and they are classified into different groups. Some marmas are very important in breast disorders, and if massaged with proper pressure/technique, order, oil, duration etc., can help a lot in prevention as well as relief. Some of these points are :

Apalapa marma
Hridaya marma
Apastambha marma
Kukundar Marma
Stana Mula
Stana Parshva etc.

Activation of these and other important points by massage with specific herbal oils, medicated ghrita in a gentle manner with discrete motion is highly beneficial. All this must be undertaken under the strict supervision of a well-trained expert with actual experience. Ayurvedic/ Yogic massage based on Marma Therapy has always included extensive work on the breast area for women. This is done not only as a means to beautify the breast, encourage a delightful shape and for greater comfort but also for deeper therapeutic reasons. It teaches that massage over and around breast tissue improves or helps maintain health in all parts of female reproductive tissue as well as assists in hormonal balance. Most masseurs are either not trained in such specialized massage and/or will not do it because of the fear of sexual harassment suits. Most agree, however, that it is therapeutic and beneficial. Recently, some studies have documented the role of breast massages in breast cancer prevention. Also, these massages may offer relief in post-operative complications.

AYURVEDA MEDICINES

Ayurveda medicines are very helpful in all stages of this disease and can help improve quality of life. Selection of medicines is done on the basis of prakriti and vikriti after proper assessment. Regular use of turmeric cuts your chances of getting breast cancer by 50%. Neem also helps in keeping the number of cancer cells in the body in check. Some medicines can also to be applied externally, like: Aloe vera root, Jasmine, Pomegranate juice mixed with mustard/sesame oil, Terminalia chebula fruit powder, Manjistha, Raktachandan and grape juice. Herbs like Symplocos racemosa, Semecarpus anacardiuum, Moringa oleifera, Oroxylum indium etc are used by physicians in form of external application. These herbs require supervision.

MUDRA VIGYAN AND KRIYA VIGYAN
Various hand postures (hasta mudras) are said to have very beneficial effect in health and disease. Gayatri mudras, a set of 32 hand postures to be performed with chanting of Gayatri Mantra, is said to have a very beneficial effect in cases of cancer. Also, Nabho mudra and Khechari mudra, when done properly along with certain Pranayamas, are said to have a curative effective in cancer. Panchakarma requires strict supervision by an expert. Interestingly Snehana, i.e., intake of various medicated oil preparations in a classical way a week or 10 days prior to the start of chemotherapy or radiotherapy, has been found to reduce the toxic effects of such therapies. Shatkarma is a set of six detoxifying procedures, viz., Neti, Dhauti, Nyauli, Basti, Kapal Bhati, Tratak, which are said to remove the toxins from the body and thus help the body recover from any ailment.

NADA YOGA AND MANTRAS

All disorders in Ayurveda have been correlated to karmic influences. Hence chanting Mantras with appropriate gestures is very helpful. The selection of Mantras and time to chant depends on the natal chart and its interpretation. Mantras influence the vibratory functions of cells and help them work in specific synchronization with the brain. Over a period of time it helps to cleanse the body of toxins. These therapies must be followed with strict guidelines of diet and lifestyle.

VEDIC ASTROLOGY AND GEMSTONES

Gemstone therapy and Vedic astrology have been shown to be useful in cancers. Blue sapphire has been found to be most useful.

WHAT YOU CAN DO

Do Yoga regularly. Yoga has been shown to go a long way in boosting immunity.
Learn breathing exercises from a knowledgeable teacher and practice them regularly. Pranayama has been shown to have a lot of healing effect.
Practice breast self-massage as well as use professional help. Marma massages, done properly, help with circulation and lymphatic drainage, and open up blockages in energy channels.
Exercise regularly using movements that involve the shoulders and build torso and upper arm strength.
Wear comfortable, natural fiber (i.e. cotton) undergarments. Bras that have underwires or that are strapless should not be used as they allow toxins to accumulate in breast tissue.
Use aluminium-free deodorant. Empirical studies show that aluminum can enter the blood and lymph systems through the skin and severely challenge the immune system.
Avoid alcohol. Having even one drink per day increases breast cancer risk, according to a study published in the British Medical Journal.
Avoid hydrogenated fats like margarine and vegetable shortening.
Eat a vegetarian diet with little or no saturated or mono-saturated fats, refined sugars, dairy products, meats, and caffeine, and high in whole grains (i.e. brown rice, oats, barley) , green and orange vegetables (i.e. carrots, squashes, kale, broccoli, cabbage, etc.).
Grapes and grape-based products have shown cancer chemopreventive potential and are also known to improve overall human health.
Eat soy-based products, such as soy milk, tofu, and tempeh occasionally.
Choose to eat organic foods and use environmentally friendly cleaning products. Many synthetic chemicals (including what is found in fertilizers, pesticides. germicides) mimic hormones and cause physical and emotional havoc.
Use supplements such as vitamins E, C, and B-complex as well as minerals. Eat mineral-rich sea vegetables or take mineral supplements particularly when your stress level is high.
Use hormone-free contraception. Avoid long-term use of the pill and synthetic hormone therapies when possible.
Expose your breasts to sun and moon light.
Sleep in complete darkness. Light interferes with melatonin secretion.
Color TVs, microwave ovens, and computer screens emit radiation that may cause damage to tissues.
Each body type has its own, unique beauty. Seek that out in yourself and become it.
Sensuality and sexuality are not opposed to or the enemy of spirituality. Celebrate life!

SAVY offers specialized Breast Cancer Care programs based on Ayurveda and Yoga Therapy under one of the Most Qualified Faculty in the World, and the Most Qualified Faculty in Canada.

We offer other programs also under Cancer Care.

Learn all that directly under expert guidance of one of the most qualified faculty in the world!

The Head of Faculty – Dr Jitender K Sahdev, in addition to being a Physician in Modern Medicine from India, is a Yoga Therapist, Yoga Teacher and Ayurveda Practitioner par excellence in London with over 51,000 hours of Traditional Yoga teaching experience and almost three decades of experience in Modern Medicine, Ayurveda, Yoga Therapy and other alternative treatment modalities. A Surgeon by profession from India, he started his Surgical career in a Cancer Hospital in India and in his Surgical career over almost three decades, performed thousands of cancer surgeries. He utilizes Ayurveda and Yoga as stand-alone as well as complementary therapies for optimizing the health and wellness of his clients, for easing symptoms associated with disease, and more. He trained under doyens of Yoga in India for almost four decades.

Sign up today and live life to your full potential.

Fix an appointment to have your questions answered.

Please go to Contact Us page to email or call.

Dr Jitender K Sahdev

President and Director of Teaching

Note : Yoga Therapy is best administered in an individualized manner though some generalized guidelines have been provided for all. You should check with your health care professional before starting this or any new therapy or exercise program or breathing routine. This is especially important if you have any pre-existing health conditions, such as high blood pressure, migraines or heart or lung ailments. Women who are pregnant or think they might be pregnant should consult their physician before performing any of the breathing or physical exercises or undertaking any therapy program.

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Yoga Fundamentals Series

Series, Yoga, Yoga Classes, Yoga Education

Sep 142014

Yoga Fundamentals Series

SAVY Yoga has been serving the city of London and surrounding areas since 2011. To serve the people London in a better way, instead of serving some run-of-the-mill pseudo-yoga routines, we offer some very useful, true Yoga/ Pranayama routines, ranging from gentle to very challenging routines, for a beginner to an advanced student alike.

Here, we bring to you a new series of classes on Yoga Fundamentals which introduce you and clarify to you the benefits of authentic traditional ashtanga Yoga.

SAVY Yoga, or more correctly, the SAVY style of Yoga, which has been re-christened as SAVY Healing Yoga, is one of the most complete and healthful yoga available today, and a lot of well-informed and well-educated hard work goes in to keep it like that. SAVY has made big strides in its very short tenure as delineated in SAVY Storyline.

This 3- Class series on Yoga Fundamentals is for the absolute beginner as well as for those who would like to revisit and clarify the basic principles. We shall explore basic yoga postures, breathing exercises and Yoga Mudras in depth and give you confidence with your own personal practice. You`ll learn safe practices and experience the healing effects of Yoga.

You are most welcome to learn this routine and stay healthy.

This series is held periodically.

The program will consist of a group-based practice led by a knowledgeable and experienced instructor.

Here are the details:

Location:
- Physical Location : SAVY International North London Studio at 163 Concord Road London ON N6G 3H9, Or
- Online – You’ll be sent routine for each day.
Formats: 3-Class Series
Batches: One batch in the month it is offered.
Days & Time:
- Group Sessions: Wednesdays, from 4:45 PM – 5:45 PM, or
- Private Sessions: By appointment
Cost:
- Group Sessions: $150 for all 3 group sessions (+HST), or
- Private Sessions: $499 for all 3 private sessions (+HST)

Commitment:
- A firm commitment to complete the program without missing any class (except in an emergency).
- At the end of the one month program, incorporate the techniques learned in your practice. You may also sign-up for another month. Continue routine Yoga classes if you are already coming, or join classes at SAVY Studio.
Components of Program:
- Asana (physical postures/stretching)
- Pranayama (breathing techniques)
- Meditation
- Self Marma Massage of important Marma Bindus
- Nada
- Mudra
- Pearls of Ancient Wisdom

The same program is also taught on one-on-one basis and online.

Please book your appointment for ‘Meet and Greet’.

Please check the exact schedule and time below.

Through demonstration, discussion and experiential movement, you will gain key understanding of proper posture and how to keep your body safe. As common sense dictates, one can function properly only if one is disease-free and is in a healthy state of body, mind and spirit. So, for us, your health and disease-free state comes first of all. We firmly believe Yoga is much beyond mere gymnastics and sauna!

London Yoga Classes at SAVY bring you the taste, values and expertise of the true traditional Ashtanga and Vinyasa Yoga from India. Inspired adherence to eight pillars or steps of yoga bestow one with a calm mind and fit body and lead one towards attaining moksha or liberation for an emancipated life. In more physical or materialistic terms, Yoga is more than capable of keeping one physically and mentally fit and disease-free. It has become the new hot and favored way to sweat it out. Yoga Fundamentals is a step in that direction.

Established benefits of Yoga:

Improved General Health
Longevity
Anxiety Relief
Stronger Bones
Healthier Heart
Healthy Weight
Lower Stress Levels
Increased Flexibility
Lower Blood Pressure
Improved Lung Capacity
Improved Brain Function
Greater Sense of Balance
Better mind-body connexion
Better Sexual Function & Libido
Lower Blood Sugar Levels in Diabetics
Relief from Chronic Back Pain and Neck Pain
Better over-all quality of life & much more…

The salient features of London Yoga Classes of SAVY Healing Yoga are:

Comprehensive, authentic, world class teaching and knowledge-base in all aspects of Yoga
Authentic Ashtanaga and Vinyasa Yoga training based on true, traditional Yoga from India
Asanas, Pranayama, Pratyahara, Dhyana, Kriyas. Chakras, Kundalini Awakening, Shatkarma, Marma, Mantra etc
Clear, concise, to-the-point instruction and individualized care
One of the most qualified, experienced, international faculty, well-trained in India with excellent teaching skills
Yoga School with highest ranking of RYS 200 and RYS 300 – we train yoga teachers up to the highest rank
Yoga Therapy services for all diseases available
Wonderful, knowledgeable, stable, regular, supportive, warm, welcoming yoga community
Unique, specialized yoga classes – Sukshma Yoga, Vinyasa Yoga, Deep Stretch Yoga, Yoga for Face, Meditation Classes, Sun and Moon Salutations, Pranayama etc
Workshops on interesting Yoga topics from time to time
Delve deep into the field of Yoga – Keep learning and sharing knowledge
Suitable time of classes
Small size of even group classes
Small Class Yoga for smaller groups
Private sessions also available
Decent studio and studio setting – enjoy the character and warmth of the Victorian heritage building
Authentic Yoga at reasonable rates

Learn all that directly under expert guidance of one of the most qualified faculty in the world! Your Yoga Teacher Trainer – Dr Jitender K Sahdev, E-RYT 500, RCYT, RPYT, D.Sc., Ph.D.,MD, MBBS, Fellow in Surgery and Surgical Oncology, is one of the most accomplished, qualified and experienced Yoga Therapist /Yoga Teacher in the world. A Surgeon by profession from India, he utilizes Yoga as a complementary therapy for optimizing the health and wellness of his participants and for easing symptoms of pain and tightness associated with disease. He trained under doyens of Yoga in India for almost four decades. He is a Yoga Therapist in Canada.

Please check the full schedule of classes through London Yoga Classes page and fill up your Registration and Waiver Form from the page.

Book your spot today!

Contact Us

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SAVY International Inc.