For over a decade, every September 29th has been celebrated as "World Heart Day" to raise awareness about heart disease.
Despite this, recent studies reveal discouraging statistics regarding heart health. In India, for example, 70% of people are at risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD). Among men aged 30–34, 75% are at risk, and among women, 66% face the same danger.
Risk Factors for Heart Disease
Diabetes / Smoking / High cholesterol
Overweight and obesity
High blood pressure
Little or no physical activity
Sedentary lifestyle
Consumption of high-calorie foods
People in certain countries may be more genetically predisposed to heart problems, but the universal advice is to pay attention to lifestyle choices and take preventive measures to reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease.
A year-long study in India found that yoga helped counteract many of the contributing factors to cardiovascular conditions. A healthy diet also plays a key role: high in antioxidants, low in fat and refined carbs, and rich in fiber and quality protein, it supports overall well-being.
Benefits of Yoga
Experts emphasize the importance of yoga for improving circulation and pranayama (breathing techniques) for better breathing and a calmer mind. Meditation is another effective tool for mental relaxation and recovery. Don't forget that exercise is an excellent way to improve circulation.
Yoga helps restore balance between body and mind, allowing for better health without relying on medication.
It’s especially effective in managing stress-related disorders, acting on both the physical and mental levels.
Asanas work on the physical body, while meditation practices help calm and focus the mind.
Regular yoga practice not only helps prevent cardiovascular diseases but also promotes overall wellness.
Recommended Yoga Poses for Heart Health
Tree Pose (Vrikshasana)
Brings mental balance and supports stable and healthy heart function.
Triangle Pose (Trikonasana)
Improves flexibility in the spine.
Chair Pose (Utkatasana)
Strengthens the lower body and core.
You can learn the full sequence of yoga postures in just a few days through a course with The Art of Living. Their centers also offer workshops like “The Secret of Breath”, where you can discover the full range of benefits yoga has to offer.
Ayurveda’s Advice
The ancient Indian science of health, Ayurveda, recommends reducing anxiety and turning toward nature-based health practices. Stress, physical inactivity, a sedentary lifestyle, and the consumption of fatty, processed foods are major contributors to heart problems.
Preventing cardiovascular disease is simple and highly effective. Start by limiting cow’s milk and avoiding egg yolks. Remove meat from your diet and focus on consuming plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables. Movement is essential—don’t underestimate the power of daily physical activity.
At The Art of Living centers, you can receive an individual diagnosis from a trained Ayurvedic doctor from India. Take care of your heart today—don’t postpone your opportunity to live a full, healthy life.
