November Is American Diabetes Month – Here's How Yoga Can Help
- Jeannine Love
- Nov 6
- 2 min read
Updated: Nov 23
November is American Diabetes Month in the United States, and November 14th marks World Diabetes Day. If you’re living with diabetes—or at risk—incorporating yoga into your routine may offer real benefits.
Understanding Diabetes
Diabetes is a chronic condition related to the body's ability to regulate blood sugar (glucose) levels, a function primarily managed by the pancreas. There are two main types of diabetes:
Type 1 Diabetes: Often diagnosed in childhood or adolescence, this more severe form of diabetes requires insulin therapy because the body does not produce insulin. Type 1 Diabetes is an autoimmune disease.
Type 2 Diabetes: Typically develops in adulthood and is far more common. It's often linked to lifestyle factors, including poor dietary choices, physical inactivity, chronic stress, and sleep deprivation (regularly getting less than 8 hours of sleep). People with Type 2 diabetes may not require insulin initially but need to manage the condition through lifestyle changes and sometimes medication.
There is also prediabetes, a condition in which blood sugar levels are elevated but not high enough to be classified as Type 2 diabetes. Prediabetes is a warning sign and indicates a higher risk of developing diabetes if no lifestyle changes are made.
Treatment Options
While there is currently no cure for diabetes, it can be managed effectively through a combination of medication, diet, and lifestyle modifications. Exercise is a cornerstone of treatment and is recommended by healthcare providers to help control blood sugar levels.
An effective exercise routine often includes:
Aerobic activity (e.g., brisk walking, swimming, cycling)
Strength training
Flexibility and balance exercises, such as yoga or Tai Chi
How Yoga Supports Diabetes Management
Yoga has been shown in research to support stress reduction, improve mind-body awareness, and encourage healthier lifestyle behaviors—all of which are critical in managing diabetes. By becoming more aware of your body and emotions, you’re more likely to make choices that support your overall well-being, including staying active and eating well.
To get the most benefit, look for a traditional yoga class that incorporates:
Asanas (physical postures)
Breathwork
Relaxation techniques and/or Meditation
This multi-component or integrative approach to yoga is more beneficial for people with diabetes than fitness-only yoga classes that focus solely on physical exercise.
If you're interested, check with local studios or community centers and speak with instructors about the focus of their classes to find one that suits your needs.
In conclusion, diabetes is a complex condition, but it can be effectively managed with the right tools and support. Alongside medical treatment and other forms of exercise, yoga can be a powerful, low-impact way to support your physical and emotional health while living with diabetes. It can also be part of your preventative approach if you are prediabetic.
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