Yoga is well-known for boosting flexibility and muscle tone, but science suggests that it may also help improve hearing loss and tinnitus for some people. It all boils down to two primary effects of yoga on hearing loss: increased circulation to the ears that helps promote nerve function and relaxed muscle tissue, particularly in the neck.
While not everyone will experience improved hearing with yoga, below are six poses to try and see what works for you. Make sure to check with your doctor or qualified trainer before attempting any new exercise routine, as the suitability of these exercises varies based on your medical history, fitness level, and flexibility.
- Head Rotation
- Neck Flexion and Extension
- Legs Up the Wall
- Downward Dog
- Cobra
- Tree
Continue to learn more about these yoga poses that may help reduce the effects of hearing loss and tinnitus.
1. Head rotation
This yoga exercise for better hearing is simple enough to do anywhere. Simply rotate your head to the right, then to the left, as if you’re slowly shaking your head “no.” Go as far as you can on either side without over-stretching or causing pain. Repeating this move a few times each day can help stretch your neck and shoulder muscles while increasing blood flow to your ears and other areas.
2. Neck flexion and extension
Next, perform a similar exercise going up and down rather than side to side – just like you’re nodding “yes.” Tuck your chin as you look down, then slowly raise your head until you’re looking at the sky or ceiling. In addition to potentially improving your hearing, this yoga pose can also help increase your range of motion and reduce neck pain.
3. Legs up the wall
In this restorative inversion pose, you’ll lay down next to a wall, tree, or another sturdy surface. Stretch your legs up the wall and gently relax your body for up to 15 minutes. Not only will this pose help increase circulation, but it can also reduce swelling and drain tension in your legs and feet, and calm the nervous system.
4. Downward-Facing Dog
Another one of the gentle yoga exercises for better hearing is Downward-Facing Dog. To get into this position, start on your hands and knees. Gently lift your knees and lengthen your tailbone. Push the top of your thighs back and straighten your knees to a comfortable level without locking them. This yoga pose may help with tinnitus symptoms, but can also be beneficial for digestion, headaches and fatigue, and back pain.
5. Cobra
Channel your inner snake with this simple pose to improve circulation. Start by laying on your stomach. Then, place your hands under your shoulders (like you’re getting ready to do a pushup), and lift your head, neck, and torso as much as feels comfortable. This gentle yoga pose for better hearing also stretches the shoulders, chest, and abdominal muscles, and helps clear the passages in the heart and lungs.
6. Tree
This quintessential yoga pose is a great way to improve your balance while also increasing your circulation. Stand straight, rest your palms together in front of your chest or raise your arms above your head. Then, lift one leg and rest it on the opposite ankle, calf, or thigh. Hold on to a nearby wall if needed. Breathe deeply through your nose while you hold the pose.
If it’s safe for you, try these exercises to see if you experience improved hearing with yoga. If you feel the benefits, expand your practice with online yoga classes, use a yoga app, or check out public classes in your neighborhood.
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