Benefits of yoga for doctors

National Doctors’ day is observed on July 1 every year. Doctors play a crucial role in the well-being and health care of the country. Their job brings considerable difference and betterment of pain and relief to a person’s disease. The profession of being a Doctor demands long working hours which happens to be the main reason for stress. Little time to relax and rejuvenate remains the biggest challenge for the medical field. 

Also Read: Bidhan Chandra Roy, the man behind National Doctors’ Day

Doctors Day is attributed to the memory of Dr Bidhan Chandra Roy and marks the celebration of the tireless contribution of the healthcare workers. Dr Roy received Bharat Ratna in 1961 for his work in medical science. 

COVID-19 saw a huge collapse of the medical infrastructure which had a huge toll on the physical and mental health of doctors and healthcare workers. The infinite calamities that the pandemic brought and the life-death decisions that were to be taken impacted the mental health of doctors and led to an increase in stress levels and burnout. 

It becomes an equally important step for doctors to take some time for their better physical and mental health. Ira Trivedi stated to HT that “The practice of yoga and meditation can come to the rescue of doctors and all healthcare workers. Yoga is instrumental in reducing mental health problems, anxiety, and stress to a large extent. The regular practice of yoga regulates the mood, restores energy, and gives sound sleep.”

She mentioned that Yogic breathing is helpful for stress as it calms and balances the mind of doctors. She also mentioned that yoga asana and stretches if practised daily phases out stress completely from the body. Therapeutic yoga and mindfulness practices bring awareness of the particular moment and the thinking that it will pass. 

Also Read: 4 tips to cope with stress and anxiety

Some benefits of Yoga for Doctors:

1. It provides mental and physical benefits to people of all ages. Virabhadrasana, Vajrasana, and Trikonasana encourage good circulation and respiration
2. Anulom Vilom and Adho Mukha Svanasana helps in rejuvenation, increased blood flow, and boost alertness with their deep breathing. 
3. It aligns and unifies the mind and body.
4. It brings in more flexibility of posture and makes the body stronger.
5. Naukasana and Chaturanga Dandasana reduces belly fat and weight. 
6. Bhujangasana and Sarvangasana improve blood flow and circulation.
7. Shalabhasana improves digestion and metabolism rate as it massages the abdominal area. 
8. Blood Sugar level is maintained by practising Mandukasana and Dhanurasana
9. Surya Namaskar and Kapaalbhaati can be practised every day for overall wellness. 

It is believed that “If doctors are free of mental health problems, stress, and anxiety, then they will be better able to treat the patients,” concludes the yoga expert.