How to Do a Modified Yoga Inversion to Manage HIV/AIDS

Step 1:
A regular yoga practice can be very beneficial for those with HIV/AIDS. Gentle stretching can help to release muscle tension. Your practice should include restorative poses and meditation to help elicit the relaxation response (a calm state achieved during meditation) which is necessary in counteracting the negative effects of stress, a major immunosupressor. Inversions are particularly helpful for those with HIV/AIDS. Inversions revitalize and rejuvenate your whole system. They reverse the effects of gravity. The pineal and pituitary glands are activated, balancing the hormones. By elevating the legs, circulation, venous return, and lymph drainage are improved, and strain and fatigue are relieved. Inversions also aid in sleep, evoke calm, quiet, and soothe the nerves. Holding inversions allows gravity to help facilitate realignment and stimulation of the body and they stimulate the immune system.

Step 2:
Many traditional inversions such as headstands and shoulder stands can be hard on the neck and shoulders and lead to injury. However there are modifications to these postures which can give you the same benefits without any strain on the body. You want to lift the hips up higher then the waist. You can do this with either a pile of blankets or a couch cushion or yoga bolster.

Step 3:
To do an inversion along a wall, lie on your back with your head away from the wall and place the pile of blankets or cushion under your buttocks. Lift your legs up and rest them on the wall. Since this is a restorative posture, make sure you are in a position that allows you to completely relax. You should not feel like you are having to hold the posture. Hold for three to five minutes or to comfort. Take slow, deep breaths and allow the body to completely relax.

Step 4:
To do an inversion with a cushion or yoga bolster. Lie on your back. Slide the cushion or bolster under your buttocks. Lift your legs up. Push the bolster round until you find a comfortable position. You should be able to completely relax and not feel like you are having to hold your legs up. Hold for three to five minutes or to comfort. Take slow, deep breaths and allow the body to completely relax.