Wellness@Work : 6 yoga poses to improve digestion
Consider integrating these stretches into your routine after meals for maximum benefit.
Much of your Thanksgiving celebration may revolve around food – and lots of it. But you don’t have to feel miserable from overeating all weekend. Simple yoga stretches can be highly beneficial for digestion, promoting overall gut health and alleviating discomfort.
Here are some effective yoga stretches and poses that can help improve your digestion and keep you in a thankful mood:
Cat-cow stretch: Begin on your hands and knees in a tabletop position. Inhale, arch your back (cow pose), lifting your head and tailbone. Exhale, round your spine toward the ceiling (cat pose), tucking your chin and tailbone. This gentle flow massages the digestive organs and improves circulation.
Seated forward bend: Sit with your legs extended straight in front of you. Inhale to lengthen your spine and then exhale as you hinge at your hips to reach toward your feet. This pose helps to stimulate the digestive organs and promote blood flow to the abdomen.
Supine spinal twist. Lie on your back and bring your knees to your chest. Let your knees fall to one side while keeping your shoulders on the ground. Turn your head in the opposite direction. Twists help to massage the abdominal organs and improve digestion.
Bridge pose. Lie on your back with your knees bent and feet flat on the floor. Press your feet into the ground as you lift your pelvis toward the ceiling. This pose stimulates the abdominal organs, aiding digestion.
Cobra pose. Lie on your stomach, place your hands under your shoulders, and gently lift your chest off the ground while keeping your pelvis grounded. This pose opens up the front of the body and stimulates the digestive organs.
Reclined butterfly pose. Lie on your back with your feet together and knees falling outward. You can place cushions or blocks under your knees for added support. This pose encourages relaxation and gentle stretching in the abdomen.
Always listen to your body and only go as far as you feel comfortable. Practice these poses in a calm environment, focusing on your breath to enhance relaxation and digestion.
Consider integrating these stretches into your routine after meals for maximum benefit.
Remember, if you have any serious digestive issues or medical conditions, it's best to consult with a healthcare professional or a certified yoga instructor before starting a new yoga practice.
About the author: Michelle Ryan, an E-RYT 200 yoga teacher and fitness instructor, works as a marketing specialist for USA Health.
How can you lead a longer, better life? Follow weekly Wellness@Work tips from USA Health Integrative Health and Wellness. We cover ways you can eat better, move better, be more mindful, and find more balance to support your optimal health and well-being. Learn more at https://www.usahealthsystem.com/wellness.
