Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a lifelong condition that causes the immune system to attack the protective layers of the nerves, resulting in physical impairment and the inability to function normally. MS can cause difficulty in balancing, muscle control, and being independent. If you, or someone you know, has MS, exercises can be extremely beneficial in maintaining a healthy life. The most important lifestyle changes for multiple sclerosis include being physically active. Yoga can be an excellent way to get some physical activity. Here are some top yoga poses that you can practice at home to get stronger and more coordinated.

• Downward facing dog
  This is also called Adho Mukha Svanasana. This pose resembles a dog that faces the ground. In this pose, the person stands in a ‘V’ shape with the hands and feet on the ground at a distance and the hips reaching to the sky. This pose stretches the hips, shoulder, spine, arms, and calf muscles and lets your body relax and loosen up at the end of the pose. You can also do the pose by holding a chair instead of keeping your palms on the ground. Healthy lifestyle changes for multiple sclerosis, such as yoga, make a significant difference in the quality of your life.
• Hamstring stretch
  Also called the Paschimottanasana, this is a beautiful pose to help the back and the legs stretch and relax. You will have to sit on a yoga mat with the spine straight. Now, attempt to hold both your feet with your hands. You can bend slightly to achieve this while the leg has to be straight and stretched. You will feel an instant stretch all over your body. You can sit on a cushion to make the pose easier.
• Inverted lake
  This pose is called Viparita Karani. Sit close to the wall, facing it. Now, with your buttocks about six inches away from the wall, put your legs up the wall and lie down on your back. Your legs on the wall and the rest of your body have to be perpendicular to each other. This pose gives a gentle stretch on your frontal torso, calf muscles, and back, helping you relax.
• Child’s pose
  Known as Balasana, this is a resting pose that is immensely relaxing for the body and the mind. You start by kneeling on the floor. Then bend to bring the head to the floor. Relax your arms so that they lie alongside your body with upward-facing palms. Stay this way until you feel calm and pain-free. Doing yoga as a lifestyle change for multiple sclerosis will help calm your mind and make you more focused too.

One should pick up yoga as one of the lifestyle changes for multiple sclerosis, but ensure you take the help and guidance of a professional yoga instructor. With time, you can do these poses at home every day and experience the difference they bring.