A head full of thick and voluminous hair can really our boost self-confidence. However, there are a number of internal and external factors that lead to hair loss, making it common for our hair to thin as we age. Factors including hormonal imbalances, poor eating habits, and genetic disorders can all lead to hair loss, many of which are out of our control. To combat this, there are a number of over-the-counter treatments claiming to work miracles on your locks. However, many people prefer to avoid the harsh chemicals often used in these products. Thankfully, there is a natural option, instead – yoga.
Through various asanas, we can enhance blood circulation to the scalp, improve digestion, and reduce our stress levels – some of the leading causes of hair loss. The natural therapy can also improve oxygen consumption by the cells of the scalp, allowing you to enjoy thicker hair for years to come. Better still, all you need to get started are some flexible yoga pants. In this article, we explore the best yoga poses to curb hair loss.
Vajrasana
One of the best poses to prevent hair loss is Vajrasana. Simple and easy to practice, the posture can be used by yogis of all sorts. During this asana, blood circulation to the scalp is increased; oxygen-rich blood is then delivered to the hair follicles, allowing them to remain happy and healthy. To practice the asana, kneel on the mat with your back straight and your heels together. Next, place your hands on your thighs and relax your arms. You are in Vajrasana. Hold the posture for around one minute whilst breathing deeply.
Standing Forward Bend
Standing Forward Bend is another great pose for curbing hair loss. Much like Vajrasana, this posture promotes blood supply to the scalp to prevent hair fall and to improve the quality and texture of the hair.
To begin the pose, stand tall with your feet directly under your hips. Gently hinge forward at the waist and begin to lower your upper body toward the floor. To minimise pressure on the lower back, remember to bend your knees generously throughout the pose. Next, take hold of your ankles and let your body hang naturally toward the floor. You are in Standing Forward Bend. Hold the posture for 1 minute, remembering to breathe deeply throughout.
Dolphin Pose
Working to nourish the hair follicles, Dolphin Pose promotes blood circulation to the crown. This asana is also an Indian home remedy for the common cold, with many people using it to relieve a headache and sore throat.
To practice the asana, start on all fours. Ensuring your knees are set directly beneath your hips, bring your forearms down to the floor with your shoulders above your hands. When you’re ready, touch your palms together whilst keeping your forearms on the mat. Next, curl your toes under and slowly lift your knees away from the ground. Lengthen your tailbone and lift your bottom towards the ceiling. Your body should now form an upside-down ‘V’ shape. Keeping your forearms pressed firmly into the floor, engage your shoulder blades by drawing them towards your back. It’s important to not let your head hang aimlessly when in this position; instead, support it between your upper arms. You are now in Dolphin Pose. Hold the asana for around 30 seconds before lowering yourself back down to the mat.
Reclining Big Toe Pose
Reclining Big Toe Pose is one of the most functional postures to prevent hair fall. By flushing toxins out of the system, the pose purifies the blood and in turn, improves hair growth and thickness. Additionally, the asana can relieve back pain by relaxing the muscles in the back and neck.
To practice the asana, start by lying flat on your mat. Slowly bend your knees and place your feet on the ground. Next, lift your left leg off the floor and draw your knee into your chest. If you like, you can use your hands to pull the knee towards you. Gently straighten your right leg and place it down on the ground. You are in Reclining Big Toe Pose. If your leg doesn’t straighten all the way, don’t panic! As long as you can feel a stretch through the ankle, the asana is doing its job. Hold the posture for 30 seconds before repeating on the opposite side.
Legs Up The Wall Pose
In women, the reproductive system is indirectly related to hair growth. With this in mind, Legs Up The Wall Pose can curb hair loss by improving blood flow to the pelvic area. Improving blood circulation to this area can not only prevent hair fall, it can also aid the function of the reproductive organs.
To practice the asana, place the shortest side of your yoga mat against a wall. When your mat is in place, take a seat on it facing the wall. Next, lie back on the mat and stretch both legs up the wall. Make sure that your bottom is almost touching the wall and that your legs are touching each other. Finally, rest your hands on your stomach or the mat. You are in Legs Up The Wall Pose. Close your eyes and take a few minutes to relax before exiting the posture.
Wind Relieving Pose
Poor digestion is a leading cause of hair loss. Stimulating the digestive system, Wind Relieving Pose can curb hair loss naturally and also reduce abdominal pain and bloating.
To practice the asana, start by laying flat on your back. Next, slowly draw your knees into your chest and begin to rock from side to side to massage your lower back. After a couple of seconds, stretch out your left leg while keeping your right leg tucked into your chest. Finally, move your right thigh to rest it on the mat. You are in Wind Relieving Pose. Hold the posture for 30 seconds before switching sides.
In Summary
Whether you’re hoping to preserve your luscious locks or you’re already noticing hair fall, practice the above yoga poses to curb hair loss. To promote blood circulation, it’s important to stay warm. With this in mind, consider wearing a yoga hoodie whilst you practice – especially as we approach the colder months.