Top Yoga Moves for Optimizing Digestion
Yoga, an ancient practice originating in India, is increasingly being recognised for its potential benefits in aiding digestion and managing symptoms of digestive diseases. Approximately 60 to 70 million people live with digestive diseases, making this a significant area of interest for many.
One pose that can potentially help is the Revolved Half Moon Pose (Parivrtta Ardha Chandrasana). This pose, while its originator is not specified in the article, is known to help aid in digestion and boost metabolism.
Another pose that strengthens the core muscles and stimulates deep abdominal muscles, which can help aid in intestinal flow, is the Twisted Triangle pose (Parivrtta Trikonasana).
The Seated Spinal Twist (Ardha Matsyendrasana) is a yoga pose that twists the torso, potentially compressing and then releasing the digestive organs. This can help relieve gas and bloating, and may also bring in fresh air to the lungs, opening up the kidney region, potentially aiding in digestion.
The Legs Up The Wall (Viparita Karani) is a yoga pose that has the effect of reversing blood flow, stimulating circulation and digestion. This pose can potentially improve overall digestive health.
In addition to these poses, the Urdhva Dhanurasana pose stretches out the entire front of the body and tight hip flexors, which can potentially improve digestion. The Bridge Pose (Setu Bandasana) opens up the front of the body, stimulating the abdominal organs and potentially improving digestion.
The Revolved Head-to-Knee Pose (Janu Sirsasana) is great for bringing in fresh air to the lungs and opening up the kidney region, potentially aiding in digestion.
A 2013 study suggested that supplemental yoga alongside medication can help relieve symptoms related to digestive diseases. A 2015 study found benefits of yoga for managing irritable bowel syndrome symptoms and related issues like anxiety and depression.
Good gut health is considered crucial for long-term wellness in the integrative medicine community. Moving the body can help relieve gas and bloating, making yoga a potential tool for maintaining gut health and managing digestive diseases.
While more research is needed to fully understand the benefits of yoga for digestive health, it is clear that yoga poses like Urdhva Dhanurasana, Janu Sirsasana, Ardha Matsyendrasana, and Viparita Karani may hold promise for those seeking relief and improvement in their digestive health.
