World Health Day 2026: Grand Master Akshar Explains How Yoga Can Help Manage Diabetes and Hypertension

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In recent years, lifestyle diseases such as diabetes and hypertension have become increasingly common, affecting people across age groups. The working hours, poor eating habits, stress, and inactivity have established a trend in which the body slowly becomes out of balance. Medical treatment is also imperative, but nowadays, most people are resorting to yoga as an aiding and preventive measure, which helps build up the internal health system.

On this World Health Day, we spoke to Himalayan Siddhaa Akshar, Yoga expert and Spiritual leader, Founder - Akshar Yoga Kendraa, who emphasised the importance of integrating yoga into daily life as a preventive and supportive approach to managing lifestyle diseases.

Photo Credit: Himalayan Siddhaa Akshar

Yoga has a holistic approach to health. It addresses the underlying causes of the symptoms, which include stress, poor circulation, hormonal imbalance, and a sedentary lifestyle, rather than just the symptoms themselves. "Yoga can be used to re-establish harmony between the body and mind through gentle movements, controlled breathing and mindful awareness, and this is vital in the management of lifestyle disorders," said Akshar.

How Yoga Supports Diabetes Management

Photo Credit: Himalayan Siddhaa Akshar

For diabetics, yoga can enhance metabolism and aid in glucose regulation. "Bhujangasana (Cobra Pose), Ardha Matsyendrasana (Seated Spinal Twist), and Pavanamuktasana (Wind-Relieving Pose) are also asanas that stimulate the abdominal organs, including the pancreas, to increase their functioning," advised Akshar. Frequent exercise can help maintain body weight and boost energy levels, which are significant in diabetic care.

Managing Hypertension Through Yoga

Photo Credit: Himalayan Siddhaa Akshar

Hypertension, which is mostly associated with the presence of chronic stress and mental pressure, is sensitive to simple yoga sessions. Poses, such as Shavasana (Relaxation Pose) and Balasana (Child's Pose), can be used to relax the nervous system and relieve physical tension. "The use of slow breathing exercises like Anulom Vilom Pranayama stimulates deep breathing into the lungs and the relaxation system of the body, which could eventually help in controlling the level of blood pressure," added Akshar.

The Role of Stress Management

The effect of yoga on stress management is one of its greatest advantages. Constant stress leads to a rise in cortisol levels, which directly affects blood sugar and blood pressure. Mindful breathing and other forms of meditation help slow down the mind, enhancing emotional stability and reducing anxiety. As the mind becomes calmer, the body naturally moves toward healing and balance.

Simple Practices for Daily Life

Photo Credit: Himalayan Siddhaa Akshar

Even simple practices such as Healing Walk and Siddha Walk can be easily incorporated into everyday routines. "Just a few minutes of conscious walking can enhance circulation, improve lung capacity, and support heart function without overstraining the body. These practices are accessible, which makes yoga adaptable for beginners and individuals with limited mobility," said Akshar.

Why Consistency Matters

Consistency is an important factor in experiencing the benefits of yoga. It encourages gradual progress, unlike vigorous exercises that can be difficult to sustain. With regular practice, people often report improvements, such as better sleep, improved digestion, increased flexibility, and a more relaxed state of mind. These small yet significant changes can help in managing lifestyle-related diseases.

Encouraging Long-Term Lifestyle Changes

Yoga also evokes a consciousness of a healthier life. Practitioners are naturally more aware of the food habits, posture, breathing pattern, and daily practices. This consciousness involves long-term lifestyle modifications, and not short-term remedies.

Bottomline

Akshar concluded, "Although yoga is not a substitute for medical care, it is a potent complementary practice that can help people recover and prevent. With the right instruction and consistent practice, yoga provides people with the ability to take an active responsibility in their health."

"Through balancing the body and mind, yoga is a gentle but effective way of dealing with diabetes and high blood pressure, where individuals are taken to a better life towards better health, stability and balance," he added.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.