In the perspectives of Yoga and Ayurveda, hair and nails are categorized as malas or byproducts of metabolic processes involved in the formation of the skeletal system. Professionals suggest that integrating Yoga into a comprehensive approach for hair health, along with adequate intake of vitamin C and omega-3 fatty acids, can promote the growth of long, beautiful hair.
Here are some Yoga exercises recommended for enhancing hair growth and maintaining a healthy scalp:
- Downward-Facing Dog Pose (Adho Mukha Svanasana): This pose enhances blood circulation to the scalp, nourishing hair follicles. Begin on your hands and knees, then raise your hips upward and backward, forming an inverted V shape with your body. Maintain the position for several breaths, focusing on elongating the spine and releasing tension in the head and neck.
- Standing Forward Bend (Padahasthasana): Padahasthasana increases blood flow to the scalp and stretches the posterior aspect of the body, including the spine and hamstrings. Stand with feet hip-width apart, exhale, and fold forward from the hips, keeping the spine elongated. Allow the head to hang freely, promoting scalp circulation and relieving neck tension.
- Shoulder Stand (Sarvangasana): Sarvangasana enhances blood circulation to the scalp and stimulates the thyroid gland, responsible for regulating hormone levels. Lie on your back and lift your legs overhead, supporting your lower back with your hands. Maintain a long neck and avoid excessive pressure on the cervical spine.
- Thunderbolt Pose (Vajrasana): Vajrasana aids in digestion improvement and stress reduction, indirectly benefiting hair health. Kneel on the floor with buttocks resting on heels and hands on thighs. Sit erect and breathe deeply, focusing on relaxation and tranquility.
- Fish Pose (Matsyasana): Matsyasana stretches the neck and throat, stimulates the thyroid gland, and enhances blood circulation to the head. Lie on your back with legs extended and arms alongside. Press forearms and elbows into the floor, lifting the chest towards the ceiling. Relax the head back, opening the throat and chest.
- Cobra Pose (Bhujangasana): Bhujangasana stretches the spine and chest, stimulates abdominal organs, and aids in stress and tension relief. Lie on your stomach with hands under shoulders and elbows close to the body. Inhale as you lift the chest off the floor, elongating the spine and gazing forward, while breathing deeply into the chest and abdomen.