Credit: Wikimedia Commons
This blog post is the latest in a series on the endocrine system. Previous posts explore poses for the Thyroid, the Pancreas and the Adrenal Glands.
The Thymus Gland
The Thymus gland, which sits at the base of the throat and behind the sternum, is part of both the lymphatic and endocrine systems and is responsible for helping the body develop a healthy immune system. It secretes hormones called humoral factors and produces T cells, which are an important type of white blood cells. They defend the body from bacteria, viruses and fungi.
The Thymus gland has a big role during puberty to make the T cells but as we approach the adult years its function is more as a facilitator in the lymphatic system. It still needs to be stimulated to move toxins out of the body and to keep the immune system healthy. However, by the age of 75, the Thymus has ‘disappeared’ through a process called ‘involution’. The gland turns into fatty tissue as the body does not need it anymore.
Yoga Poses
Here are a few poses you can do at home to massage the thymus:
Dhanurasana or Wheel Pose
Bhujangasana or Cobra Pose
Matsyasana or Fish Pose
Information on the Thymus was found at the Hormone Health Network website.