Online Yoga classes conducted by our caregiver member Saurabh Agrawal

For people with CKD, physical activity is imperative in order to overcome the manifold side effects of dialysis and medications. Although walking is considered the best form of exercise, it can be supported by other forms for better outcomes. Yoga is one such form that can be practiced by people of all age groups for greater flexibility, better muscle strength, improved bone strength, increased blood flow, improved heart rate, and control of blood pressure and blood sugar. It also helps in relaxation which, in effect, improves sleep.  Responding to the need expressed by several members of KWF to include meditation and relaxation as part of a patient’s routine, Saurabh Agrawal, a certified yoga instructor, volunteered to conduct yoga sessions for the members.

Saurabh Agrawal is a caregiver member of KWF, who has completed the Yoga Instructors Course from  S-VYASA, a reputed and accredited yoga institute. An employee of a MNC, he is passionate about yoga and devotes his free time to conduct yoga classes, as he wishes to share its benefits with others. He has offered free classes for members of KWF with the aim of motivating kidney warriors to take to exercise in order to maintain an active lifestyle, and improve their overall wellbeing. The sessions that commenced in August are conducted regularly every Saturday morning. The response so far has been encouraging with a number of enthusiastic participants signing in for the classes. Saurabh monitors the participants closely during the sessions within the scope of the virtual classes.

In addition to organizing the weekly live classes, Saurabh has charted out a program that the participants can follow on their own to practice yoga regularly on week days. The routine planned by him has been prepared keeping in mind the issues related to kidney health. The exercises include light body movements to activate the joints, loosening exercises to relieve stiffness and overcome lethargy, breathing exercises, and a few suitable yogasanas. Saurabh emphasizes the importance of focus and attention while doing the exercises, in order to achieve greater effectiveness. He also has a word of caution for those who follow the program: practitioners should avoid exertion, discontinue practice if they feel unwell, and always consult your doctor before you start an exercise routine.