Everyone knows that exercise is good for overall health and well being, but did you know that there are certain types of exercise that can actually aid in digestion? That’s right, yoga poses can help increase digestion, reduce bloating and even alleviate indigestion.
Warrior I
Warrior I is a great pose for digestion and it helps to stretch the inner leg muscles and the spine, which can help to reduce abdominal bloating. Start with your feet hip width apart, with your right foot pointing to the right and your left foot pointing to the left. Place your right hand on your right hip and your left arm extended to the side. Lift your right knee and draw your right heel upwards. Feel the stretch in your right inner thigh and keep your torso upright as you breathe deeply.
Revolved Triangle
The revolved triangle pose is also great for improving digestion. Start with your feet hip width apart and extend your arms out to the side. As you inhale, raise your arms above your head and twist your torso to the left, sinking your left hand beside your left foot. Your right arm should be extended out to the left. Keep your eyes on the horizon and your chest open. Hold the pose for several breaths and then release and repeat on the other side.
Seated Forward Bend
The seated forward bend is great for calming the mind and the body. Start in a seated position with your legs outstretched in front of you. As you inhale, lift your arms overhead and as you exhale, fold forward over your legs. Place your hands on your shins, feet or the floor. Keep your back flat and your chest open. You can stay in this pose for several breaths. As you inhale, press your ribs forward toward your thighs and as you exhale, release further into the forward fold.
Cobra
The cobra pose is beneficial for digestion as it helps to massage the abdominal organs. Start on the floor with your palms flat beside your chest and your legs out behind you. As you inhale, press into your palms and lift your chest off of the floor, drawing your shoulder blades down your back. You should feel a gentle stretch in your abdomen as you keep your navel drawn inward and your chest opens up. Hold the pose for a few breaths and then release back onto the floor.
These yoga poses can help to ease the discomfort associated with indigestion or bloating. Work these poses into your daily routine and you may be surprised at how much better you feel.
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