Yoga to Relieve Constipation

Yet another day and I truly hope it's different. No more frequent stomach pain, no more difficulty in bowel movement, no more headaches throughout the day, could this really be possible? I mean, it's just getting so annoying, this whole feeling of being constipated throughout the day. And I really wish something could relieve me of it.

For some of us, this is a dialogue which we may have to have with ourselves almost every day. For, constipation has become a daily affair. And, we generally tend to misinterpret it as a disease; rather, it's a symptom. A symptom for pelvic diseases and stomach disorders, if not treated at the right time. But we often tend to take constipation casually.

How does constipation happen?

Constipation has different meanings for different people. For some, it means untimely stool, and for some constipation could simply mean passage of hard stool. Whatever may be the case, the most common explanation for the cause of this problem is, without a doubt, our unhealthy lifestyle.

Inappropriate work hours, less time for rest and intake of too much junk food harm our body in a way which we fail to notice. Also, a diet low on fresh fruits and green leafy vegetables, especially food low on fiber (roughage), causes constipation. Less intake of water is another reason.

Symptoms of constipation:

Infrequent or few bowel movements
Straining while having a bowel movement
Passage of hard or small stool
Stomach ache and cramps, abdominal pain
Bloated stomach

How to cure constipation

The problem of constipation needs to be addressed in its early stages. If timely care is not taken, it may result in hazardous pelvic diseases and other stomach disorders.

Some Tips to Cure Constipation:

A simple way to cure constipation is through our diet, what we eat. Eat plenty of fiber rich foods like fresh leafy vegetables and fruits.
Drink plenty of water. Intake of warm liquids in the morning can be very helpful.
Establish a routine for you daily bowel movements.
Get plenty of exercise.

These are various ways to cure constipation. Laxatives and other treatment are available which may provide relief from constipation. But, as it is rightly said, prevention is always better than cure and the best way to prevent constipation is through Yoga.

Yoga, a natural way to relieve constipation!

A few minutes of daily yoga practice can help take care of infrequent bowel movement, prevent straining and bloating of stomach and keep you happy and at peace all day.

Yoga helps revitalize our body and also increases the flow of blood and oxygen in the system. Since most of the yoga postures involve pelvic movement, yoga practice can really help in relieving constipation woes.

Yoga poses for constipation

Here are some Yoga Asanas (postures) which, if practiced regularly, can set infrequent bowel movements to normal.

1. Mayurasana (Peacock Pose)

This posture helps improve digestion and destroys the effects of unwholesome food. It also increases intra-abdominal pressure, which reduces spleen and liver enlargements. The pose is also beneficial in toning the bowels and removing constipation problems.

2. Ardha-Matsyendrasana (Sitting Half Spinal Twist Pose)

The important physiological aspects of this asana (posture) are that it stimulates the pancreas, liver, spleen, kidneys, stomach, and ascending and descending colons; hence improving bowel movements and providing relief from constipation.

3. Halasana (Plough Pose)

This posture provides comfort to the liver and intestine. It is an inversion posture which increases blood circulation in the pelvic area and boosts digestion.

4. Pavanmuktasana (Wind-Relieving Pose)

As the name suggests, this posture helps release gas from the body, a common trouble for most of us suffering from regular constipation. The posture can help cure several digestive disorders, including dyspepsia. It also helps in relieving acid reflux which is caused by indigestion.

5. Baddha Konasana (Butterfly Pose)

This forward-bend posture helps improve our digestive system and also relieves gas, cramping and bloating of stomach. The posture also helps in reducing stress which is necessary for good digestion.

So stop worrying and start practicing! Just a few minutes of your daily time and you can actually look forward to a healthy digestive system and a happier you! Don't forget to improve your diet habits as well – fiber-rich food, fruits and vegetables, and sufficient intake of water will all help keep constipation at bay.

Yoga practice helps develop the body and mind bringing a lot of health benefits yet is not a substitute for medicine. It is important to learn and practice yoga postures under the supervision of a trained Sri Sri Yoga teacher. In case of any medical condition, practice yoga postures after consulting a doctor and a Sri Sri Yoga teacher. Find an Sri Sri Yoga course at an Art of Living Center near you. Do you need information on courses or share feedback? Write to us at info@artoflivingyoga.org