Restoring kidney function through yoga therapy
Arian Levanael
Indea Yoga Training Advance+ (Level 2 TTC)
2015
Kidneys are the organs that help filter waste products from the blood and help in the function
of the urinary system. They are also involved in regulating blood pressure, and secrete
hormones that contribute to red blood cell production in the body. They filter by-products
and toxins from the blood to preserve the balance of bodily fluids and electrolytes. Kidneys
also have the additional function of maintaining the level of acid and bases, i.e. homeostasis.
The kidneys are a pair of small (about the size of your fist-sized,) bean-shaped organs located
in the abdomen toward the back, normally one on each side of the spine just below the lowest
ribs. They get their blood supply through the renal arteries directly from the aorta and send
blood back to the heart via the renal veins to the vena cava. The kidneys excrete these
compounds with water to make urine. They also eliminate excess body water while
reabsorbing useful chemicals and allowing waste to pass freely into the bladder as urine. They
allow a person to consume a variety of foods, drugs, vitamins and nutritional supplements,
additives, and excess fluids without worry that toxic by-products will build up to harmful
levels.
As the first step in filtration, the blood passes through the glomeruli, structures composed of
tiny blood vessels entwined together. Substances present in the blood are selectively filtered
across the outer linings of the tiny blood vessels and excreted with water as urine or
reabsorbed into tube-like structures (tubules) for further filtration.
The tubules continue filtering blood until all appropriate substances are reabsorbed into the
blood and all the waste products are excreted.
Once urine leaves the kidney, it travels through long, thin tubular ureters to the bladder and
out the urethra during urination.
When kidney function deteriorates waste products build up in the body and may cause
shortage of breath, swelling, nausea, general weakness, lethargy, and confusion.
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Causes:
Diabetes, hypertension and glomerulo-nephritis are known to be the most common causes of
CKD and among these diabetes and hypertension are the leading causes of end stage renal
disease (ESRD)
Studies suggest that kidney related diseases or conditions are more likely to be observed in
developing nations where insufficient nutrition, stress and unhealthy lifestyle contribute to
renal deterioration. According to a WHO research, close to a million lives are lost globally
every year due to kidney and urinary tract related complications. High blood pressure and
diabetes are known to worsen the condition furthermore. 3
There are numerous causes of kidney failure, and treatment of the underlying disease may be
the first step in correcting the kidney abnormality.
Some causes of kidney failure are treatable and the kidney function may return to normal.
Unfortunately, kidney failure may be progressive in other situations and may be irreversible.
In my opinion, modern lifestyle is a big cause of kidney disease, preservatives and additives in
food and alcohol consumption, excess sugars and excess toxins in everything means that our
kidneys have to work harder than they would have many years ago.
Symptoms of Kidney Failure:
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Changes in urination. Little or no urine while urinating.
Fatigue and weakness.
Difficulty in concentrating.
Swelling in legs and feet.
Blood in the urine.
Decreased appetite.
Nausea and vomiting.
Pain in the back below to rib cage.
Hypertension
Presence of albumin in urine
Edema or swelling below eyes in morning
Breathlessness
Visual disturbances
Pigmentation
Loss of libido
Muscular twitching
Mile anemia
High BP
Skin rashes and itching.
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What is renal failure?
Renal failure: inability of the kidney to maintain normal function, so that waste products and
metabolites accumulate in the blood. This affects most of the body's systems because of its
important role in maintaining fluid balance, regulating the electrochemical composition of
body fluids, providing constant protection against acid-base imbalance, and controlling blood
pressure. Called also kidney failure.1
(The term "renal" is derived from the Latin name for kidney.)
How is kidney failure different from chronic kidney disease (CKD)?
CKD means that your kidneys are damaged. With CKD, your kidneys may still be working, but
they’re not working to their potential.
Kidney failure is the most severe stage of CKD. Kidney failure is when your kidneys are no
longer working well enough for you to live without dialysis or a kidney transplant.
Diagnosis: What are the tests for kidney failure?
The tests for kidney failure are the same as the tests for CKD. If you think that you may be at
risk for kidney failure, ask your doctor about these tests:
eGFR (estimated glomerular filtration rate)
This test tells your doctor how well your kidneys clean your blood.
Your doctor tests your blood for a kind of waste called creatinine. Healthy kidneys filter
creatinine out of your blood. Your doctor will then use your creatinine test result to figure out
your eGFR.
An eGFR less than 60 for 3 months or more may be a sign of kidney disease.
Urine Test
This test tells your doctor if there is blood or protein in your urine.
Your doctor may test your urine in the office or ask you to collect your urine at home.
Protein or blood in your urine may be a sign of kidney disease.
Blood Pressure
This test tells your doctor how hard your heart is working to pump your blood.
High blood pressure can cause kidney disease, but kidney disease can also cause you to have
high blood pressure.
For most people, a normal blood pressure is less than 120/80 (120 over 80). Ask your doctor
what your blood pressure should be.2
Complications:
Inability to remove potassium from the bloodstream may lead to abnormal heart rhythms.
Hypertension can also damage kidneys.
The kidneys excrete wastes but they can’t always eliminate all toxins. Too much protein can
increase the burden on the kidneys.
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How to help:
Yoga therapy focuses on bringing balance at all levels through various techniques. Its
components such as asanas work at physical level, pranayama works at vital energy level and
meditation works at psychological and intellectual levels. Recent evidence suggests that yoga
reduces heart rate, blood pressure and basal metabolic rate by reducing sympathetic activity
Yoga has been around for more than two millennia and has helped people everywhere
overcome their medical conditions the natural way.
Various yoga poses can make a difference and stimulate these vital, blood-purifying organs.
Specifically lateral bends, twisting and inversions improve the flow of oxygenated blood
throughout the body.
Kapalbhati (skull shining) pranayama and Nadi Suddi (alternate nostril breathing) pranayama
give outstanding results. They enhance and improve the power of the kidneys and can also
reduce the creatinine (Chemical waste molecule) levels in the blood, while also improving
neuromuscular strength.
Practice regularly on an empty stomach in the morning and evening.
Those suffering from high blood pressure should practice kapalbhati slowly. Only 3
exhalations in 6 seconds.
Kapalbhati Pranayama: This technique helps improve blood circulation, especially to the
lower half of the body and helps improve the overall functioning of the entire body. The
technique also helps increase the lung capacity and improves respiratory efficiency, making
more oxygen available to the body. As more oxygen flows into the body, it becomes more
efficient. You can feel yourself infused with energy every time you perform this technique. In
addition to that, you may also feel increased mental acuity, improved concentration and
heightened senses.
Nadi Suddi Pranayama: In this breathing technique, you inhale from one nostril at one time
and release the breath through the other nostril. You alternate between the two nostrils at a
regular comfortable pace.
This pranayama is said to have benefited people with Heart ailments, high blood pressure,
heart blockages, depression, migraine pain, asthma, sinus, and allergy
It is important that you breathe deep into your lungs and not into the stomach. Most elements
that absorb oxygen are in your lungs.
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The Sitting Half Spinal twist Ardha Matsyedrasana stimulates the kidneys and liver. It also
improves the body’s immunity level.
The Cobra pose Bhujangasana also stimulates the abdominal organs and relieves the body of
stress and fatigue. It is also known to help improve immunity.
Setu Bandhasana (Bridge pose) stimulates the abdominal organs, including the kidneys. It also
helps bring high blood pressure under control and relieves the body of stress.
The kidneys and urinary tract are governed by the third chakra—the manipura—located at
the navel region
Lifestyle changes:
Kidney patients should make some lifestyle changes for getting rid of kidney problems.
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Salt intake should be minimized because it is important that kidney patients should
take less salt in the diet to maintain regular functioning of kidneys.
Intake of water should be more because water is essential for removing chemicals
from the blood. Water helps in detoxification of the kidneys.
Exercise is important to maintain regular functioning of the kidneys. Exercise helps in
keeping your kidneys healthy.
Stress should be minimized.
Avoid drinking alcohol and beverages such as tea and coffee.
Smoking should be avoided because it is one of the biggest causes of kidney problems.
Include more fruits and green leafy vegetables in your platter. Keep away from foods
with high-potassium content and include more iron-rich food in your diet. An
ayurvedic diet is rich in nutrients and is highly recommended. Drink plenty of water
and get a sleep of 6-8 hours every day.
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Depending on your situation, your dietitian may recommend that you:
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Choose lower potassium foods: Your dietitian may recommend that you choose
lower potassium foods. High-potassium foods include bananas, oranges, potatoes,
spinach and tomatoes. Examples of low-potassium foods include apples, cabbage,
green beans, grapes and strawberries.
Avoid products with added salt: Lower the amount of sodium you eat each day by
avoiding products with added salt, including many convenience foods, such as
frozen dinners, canned soups and fast foods. Other foods with added salt include
salty snack foods, canned vegetables, and processed meats and cheeses.
Limit phosphorus: Phosphorus is a mineral found in foods, such as milk, cheese, dried
beans, nuts and peanut butter. Too much phosphorus in your blood can weaken
your bones and cause skin itchiness. Your dietitian can give you specific
recommendations on phosphorus and how to limit it in your particular situation.
Limit Protein: opt for a low-protein diet and mind your blood sugar and insulin levels
As your kidneys recover, you may no longer need to eat a special diet, although healthy eating
remains important.
Is also important to not have a lot of toxins coming into the body as to not overwork the
kidneys. Avoid artificial sweeteners and food colourings. Try to sip water through the day
instead of drinking a lot at one time. Also to prevent the kidneys from overworking.
7 Best Foods to Support Kidney Function
1. Cherries
These tasty little fruits help reduce redness and swelling and contain a healthy amount of
vitamin C as well as vitamin K, folate, vitamin B6, magnesium, and citrate. The tarter the
cherry, the higher the level of citrate. Citrate reduces uric acid in the blood stream, which can
lead to gout and arthritis. Those who eat cherries have been found to have lower uric acid
levels and a lower risk of gout attacks.
2. Cranberries
Cranberries also offer high levels of vitamin C and manganese. Women have traditionally used
it to fight off UTIs. Recent research has found pure cranberry juice (not the sugary stuff)
diluted in water reduced urinary levels of oxalate and phosphate, which reduce the formation
of kidney stones.
3. Cinnamon
Cinnamon is known for its ability to help regulate glucose levels. This can help the body
manage glucose better and offer protection from blood sugar disorders. Excess glucose that
results from diabetes can cause damage to the kidneys. Another study confirmed that
cinnamon could be used as a supplement without concern for increased oxalate risk.
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4. Kidney Beans
The shape and name of these beans may suggest which organ benefits most from its healing
potential. Kidney beans are known for as an effective home remedy for kidney stones. In
ancient times, the pods served as medicinal tonic.
To reduce kidney stone pain- remove the beans from the pods and in a slow cooker, boil the
pods in purified water for 6 hours. Once finished, strain the liquid and let it cool before
drinking. Drink throughout the day.
5. Olive Oil
Like fish, olive oil provides a healthy serving of nutrient dense, unsaturated fats. Olive oil is
also the basis for the ‘Mediterranean Diet.’ A recent study found individuals suffering from
chronic kidney disease that adopted this diet, experienced improvements in both symptoms
and survival. The active components in olives improve the life of those suffering from chronic
kidney disease and will certainly provide kidney support to those looking to maintain kidney
health.
6. Java Tea
Also known as Orthosiphon stamineus, this herb has been a standard of folk medicine for a
long time. It has typically been used for kidney disorders. A recent study has confirmed it to
support the kidneys, as well as the liver and gastro-intestinal tract. It also offers potentials for
blood sugar stabilization, antioxidant protection, and blood pressure stabilization.
7. Onions and garlic
Both onions and garlic contain quercitin. Quercitin is a powerful flavonoid associated with
antioxidant benefits and potency against redness and irritation. Research has found
quercitin helps provide a protection against kidney damage for smokers. For nonsmokers, the bonus protection provided by quercitin combined with improved fat
metabolism helps protect the body’s filters.
References:
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1 http://medical-dictionary.thefreedictionary.com/renal+failure
2 http://www.kidneyfund.org/kidney-disease/kidney-failure/
3 http://www.artofliving.org/in-en/yoga/health-and-wellness/yoga-for-stronger-kidneys
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Saito J, Matsuzawa Y, Ito H, Omura M, Ito Y, Yoshimura K, Yajima Y, Kino T, Nishikawa T. The alkalizer citrate
reduces serum uric Acid levels and improves renal function in hyperuricemic patients treated with the xanthine
oxidase inhibitor allopurinol. Endocr Res. 2010;35(4):145-54. doi: 10.3109/07435800.2010.497178.
Zhang Y, Neogi T, Chen C, Chaisson C, Hunter DJ, Choi HK. Cherry consumption and decreased risk of
recurrent gout attacks. Arthritis Rheum. 2012 Dec;64(12):4004-11. doi: 10.1002/art.34677.
McHarg T, Rodgers A, Charlton K. Influence of cranberry juice on the urinary risk factors for calcium oxalate
kidney stone formation. BJU Int. 2003 Nov;92(7):765-8.
Tang M, Larson-Meyer DE, Liebman M. Effect of cinnamon and turmeric on urinary oxalate excretion, plasma
lipids, and plasma glucose in healthy subjects. Am J Clin Nutr. 2008 May;87(5):1262-7.
Huang X, Jiménez-Moleón JJ, Lindholm B, Cederholm T, Arnlöv J, Risérus U, Sjögren P, Carrero JJ.
Mediterranean Diet, Kidney Function, and Mortality in Men with CKD. Clin J Am Soc Nephrol. 2013 Jun 6.
Ameer OZ, Salman IM, Asmawi MZ, Ibraheem ZO, Yam MF. Orthosiphon stamineus: traditional uses,
phytochemistry, pharmacology, and toxicology. J Med Food. 2012 Aug;15(8):678-90. doi:
10.1089/jmf.2011.1973. Epub 2012 Jun 25.
o Wilson RT, Wang J, Chinchilli V, Richie JP, Virtamo J, Moore LE, Albanes D. Fish, vitamin D, and
flavonoids in relation to renal cell cancer among smokers. Am J Epidemiol. 2009 Sep 15;170(6):717-29.
doi: 10.1093/aje/kwp178. Epub 2009 Aug 3.
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http://www.emedicinehealth.com/acute_kidney_failure/article_em.htm
http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/kidney-failure/basics/definition/con-20024029
http://www.medicinenet.com/kidney_failure/article.htm
http://www.globalhealingcenter.com/natural-health/7-best-foods-support-kidney-function/
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Case Study:
Woman 60-70 year age bracket, overweight, High BP
Fairly sedentary lifestyle
Never practiced yoga therapies before
Symptoms: none at first, went for complete physical and found out that one kidney had gone
then sent for ultra sound and scan 8 years ago, the remaining kidney was working at 40%,
when the kidney began deteriorating then started to get nausea, swelling of the feet and
ankles. 3 months ago kidney was working 19-20%
Daily programme:
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Nadi Suddi without retention or as comfortable as
possible. (with Bandhas)
Moola Bandha (contracting perineum)
Ashwini mudra (contracting sphincter)
Sahajoli mudra (contracting Urethra)
Sooo-Hummm meditation
Programme Week 1 – 6:
Therapy series 2o min 2 x per day on empty stomach with pranayama breathing exercises.
Start seated or standing if comfortable:
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Movement of toes
Ankle rotation 5x each direction
Knee rotation 5 x each direction
Wrist rotation 5 x each direction
Elbow movement 5 x each direction
Shoulder rotation 5 x each direction
Neck movement – up down sides
Shitali Tadasana focus on presence and breathe.
Standing Breathing Sequence:
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Hands in and out breathing – inhale arms open
wide – exhale palms together arms extended. 10 x
breathing deeply through nose
Ardha khati Chakrasana – Half waist wheel – Stand
feet together in tadasana, inhale raise right arm
exhale fold to Left side – repeat other side
Come to hands and knees:
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Vagra Swasa breathing
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Uddhiyana Bandha – exhale all the air out of lungs,
pull in the stomach and diaphragm and retain the
breath, then release stomach and exhale repeat 1015x
Pranayama:
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Programme Week 6 - 12:
Therapy series 2o min 3 x per day on empty stomach with pranayama breathing exercises
Start seated or standing if comfortable:
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Standing Breathing Sequence:
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Come to hands and knees:
Movement of toes
Ankle rotation 5x each direction
Knee rotation 5 x each direction
Wrist rotation 5 x each direction
Elbow movement 5 x each direction
Shoulder rotation 5 x each direction
Neck movement – up down sides
Shitali Tadasana focus on presence and breath.
Ankle stretching – start hands by sides, inhale raise
arms above head and come up onto toes, exhale
release arms and heels to the floor slowly. Coordinate breath and movement.
Hands in and out breathing – inhale arms open
wide – exhale palms together arms extended. 10 x
breathing deeply through nose
Hands stretching breathing
Ardha khati Chakrasana – Half waist wheel – Stand
feet together in tadasana, inhale raise right arm
exhale fold to Left side – repeat other side
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Vagra Swasa breathing
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Bhujangasana breathing 5x inhale lift, exhale
release
Pavanamuktasana breathing – legs extended,
exhale bend right leg and hug knee towards right
armpit, inhale release. Swap sides.
Dhanurasana Breathing 10 x inhale lift, exhale
release.
Lay flat on stomach if possible:
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Sit on floor or chair:
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Spinal twist- Sit in chai, take left hand to right knee
inhale, exhale twist and look over right shoulder,
lengthen spine. Hold for 5 breaths. Repeat on other
side.
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Pranayama:
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Kapalbhati – shining skull – Sit spine uplifted.
Inhale deeply through nose let belly fill with air,
exhale force the air out and feel the abdomen
contract. Repeat for count of 20.
Uddhiyana Bandha (contracting abdomen in rib
cage – exhale all the air out of lungs, pull in the
stomach and diaphragm and retain the breath, then
release stomach and exhale repeat 10-15x
Agni Sara – in the position of uddhiyana bandha
move the abdominal wall in and out like a pump as
many times as possible while holding the breath in
exhalation.
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