The thyroid gland is situated below the larynx on both sides of and anterior to the trachea.[/caption]
Hormones it secretes from thyroid gland are
Thyroxin (T4)
Tri iodo thyroxine (T3)
Calcitonin
T4 and T3 are related to the metabolism of the body.
Calcitonin is related to the metabolism of calcium.
These hormones have a deep effect on the metabolic rate of the body. If secretion is less it reduces the basal metabolic rate of body below normal is called as hypothyroidism. If secretion is more it increases the basal metabolic rate called as hyperthyroidism. The secretion of thyroid gland is primarily controlled by thyroid-stimulating hormone secreted by the master endocrine gland, the Pituitary gland.
Hyperthyroidism
Hyper secretion of thyroid hormone may be due to autoimmune diseases, called as Grave's disease. This disease is more frequent in females. In this disease thyroid gland gets enlarged two-three times its original size, it is called as goitre. It also causes the eye to protrude (exophthalmoses) and an abnormally high metabolic rate. The high metabolic rate produces a range of effects that generally includes higher pulse rate, high body temperature, heat intolerance, and moist flushed skin. The person loses weight and is usually full of 'nervous' energy. This condition also increases the responsiveness of the nervous system, causing the person to become irritable and exhibit tremors of the extended fingers.
Hypothyroidism
Hyposecretion of thyroid hormone occurs during foetal life or infancy, or during adulthood, which are known as cretinism and myxedema respectively. It leads to dwarfism and mental retardation. Cretin also exhibits retarded sexual development and. a yellowish skin color. Flat pads of fat develop, giving the cretin a characteristic round face and thick nose; a large, thick, protruding tongue and protruding abdomen. It lowers the body temperature, slows heart rate and brings general lethargy. Person suffering from myxedema has sensitivity to cold.
Yogic Treatment
Mudra
Beside the above mentioned asana and pranayama practice of yoga-nidra, concentration and meditation gives the best result.
Yoga normalizes the function of the thyroid, pituitary, pineal and adrenal glands by stimulating it. It limbers and stretches the neck, strengthens and tones the nervous system. It's the thyroid gland which is mainly responsible for your correct weight and youthful appearance (it controls metabolism). Yoga stimulates the thyroid gland to work at peak efficiency. As pituitary gland also get stimulated thus helps improve their function.
Therapeutics Yoganidra
YogaNidra is a state of conscious Deep Sleep. YogaNidra brings an incredible calmness, quietness and clarity. It has great Therapeutics values.