Many people find yoga classes relaxing. They may provide improved flexibility and fitness, better circulation, improved immune systems, and stress relief just to name a few benefits. But have you ever found yourself dizzy during yoga? Maybe you had to avoid a certain position or couldn’t finish the class. If so, you are not alone.
Certain head positions may cause you to experience the sensation of vertigo, the feeling of movement when you are not moving. You may feel spinning much like after you ride a merry-go-round. It can feel like you are floating or rocking as if you are at sea. It may feel like you are riding an elevator that stopped quickly.
If associated with changes in head positioning, you may be suffering from benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV). The common positions that cause BPPV are rolling over in bed, leaning back (in a dental chair or at a salon), or leaning forward (downward dog in yoga, picking up a ball after putting).
BPPV is caused by particles floating in the inner ear. When you move your head in certain positions, the particles stimulate the inner ear, telling the brain that you are moving when you are actually still. This creates the sensation of vertigo. It usually lasts a few seconds, but you may remain nauseous, sweaty, or just feel off for a time afterwards.
This may happen after head trauma. Or it could happen in an ear that has had prior infections or surgery. Sometimes it occurs if you are placed in a steep lying position or have to stay in bed for a long period of time. In most cases, the cause is not known or found.
A simple maneuver and a few days rest may be all that’s needed to get you back on the yoga mat. At the Dallas Ear Institute there are professionals to help you know more about your vertigo. Call (469) 803-5555 to schedule an appointment.