Yoga is widely recognized for its physical and mental health benefits, including stress relief, improved flexibility, and enhanced mindfulness. Certain poses may pose risks for individuals with glaucoma, however, due to increased intraocular pressure (IOP). Understanding these risks can help you safely integrate yoga into your wellness routine while minimizing potential harm.*

The Impact of Headstand Positions on Eye Pressure

A study conducted by Mt. Sinai Health Systems examined how different inverted yoga poses affect IOP in both healthy individuals and those with glaucoma. Researchers measured IOP at rest, immediately after assuming a pose, and after holding it for two minutes. The study focused on four specific poses:

• Downward Facing Dog (Adho Mukha Svanasana)
• Standing Forward Bend (Uttanasana)
• Plow Pose (Halasana)
• Legs Up the Wall (Viparita Karani)

Results showed that all four poses led to an increase in IOP in both groups after only one minute of holding the pose, with Downward Facing Dog causing the most significant spike. 

While IOP levels returned to baseline after participants resumed a seated position, even temporary increases could be a concern for people with glaucoma. Elevated IOP is a major risk factor for glaucoma progression, meaning these short-term spikes may contribute to long-term vision loss.

How to Safely Modify Your Yoga Routine

To minimize risks while still enjoying the benefits of yoga, glaucoma patients should take precautions by:

• Avoiding inverted poses that involve prolonged head-down positions, such as Downward Facing Dog and Plow Pose.
• Limiting the duration of any potentially risky poses, to reduce IOP spikes.
• Communicating with yoga instructors about the condition so that poses can be modified accordingly.

While further research is needed to determine the long-term effects of yoga-related IOP increases, experts suggest erring on the side of caution. By making simple modifications, you can continue practicing yoga safely while protecting your vision.

*Glaucoma Research Foundation. (2023, November 20). Is Doing Yoga Safe If I Have Glaucoma? https://glaucoma.org/articles/is-doing-yoga-safe-if-i-have-glaucoma 

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