,Lifestyle, Yoga benefits, YOGA FOR DIGESTION, Yoga for weight loss
Think of your digestive system like a soft tube that needs regular gentle massage to function well. Himalayan Siddha Akshar says, “When we twist, bend and stretch in yoga, we are actually giving a soothing massage to our internal organs. “This helps things move along and keeps our digestive fire burning.” She has listed some simple asanas to try at home. (Images by Freepik, Pexels)
Cat-Cow Stretch (Margariyasana-Bitilasana)
Remember how good it feels to stretch first thing in the morning? This is what Cat-Cow does for your digestive system. Start on your hands and knees, arch and round your back. This gentle rocking motion stimulates your digestive organs and helps reduce bloating. Do this for 1-2 minutes, moving with your breathing.
Seated Twist (Ardha Matsyendrasana)
Just like wringing out a wet towel, twisting poses help soothe and refresh your digestive organs. Sit cross-legged, place your right hand behind you and your left hand on your right knee. Slowly turn right while looking over your right shoulder. Hold for 5-8 breaths, then change sides.
Child’s Pose (Balaasana)
When your stomach gets upset, sometimes you just want to curl up like a ball. Child’s Pose offers exactly that! Kneel and sit back on your heels, extending your arms forward. This pose gently compresses your stomach, promoting healthy digestion. Stay here for 1-2 minutes, taking deep breaths.
Pawanmuktasana (Wind-muktasana)
This pose is a lifesaver for gas and bloating. Lie on your back and pull your knees toward your chest. Slowly lean from side to side, massaging your lower back and intestines. Hold for 30-60 seconds while taking deep breaths.
Make yoga your daily practice
The beauty of these asanas is their simplicity. Himalayan Siddha Akshar says, “You don’t need fancy equipment or hours of free time. “Just 10-15 minutes of exercise after waking up or before sleeping can make a big difference.”
How is yoga helpful in weight management?
Yoga alone isn’t the solution to weight loss, but these digestion-focused asanas support your body’s natural processes. Himalayan Siddha Akshar says, “Better digestion means better nutrient absorption and more regular excretion. “Plus, the mindfulness developed through yoga often leads to more conscious eating habits.”
Yoga: listen to your body
Yoga gurus remind people that everyone is unique. Himalayan Siddha Akshar says, “What works wonders for your friend may work differently for you. Start slowly and notice how your body reacts. If something doesn’t feel right, modify or leave that pose.”
mind-gut connection in yoga
Himalayan Siddha Akshar says that an often overlooked benefit of these yoga postures is stress reduction. He says, “When we are stressed, our digestion gets disturbed. “These gentle movements, combined with deep breathing, help activate our ‘rest and digest’ response, creating optimal conditions for healthy digestion.”
Yoga Benefits: Consistency is the key
As Himalayan Siddha Akshar points out, “Consistency is key. Like tending a garden, regular gentle movements improve your digestive health. “Start with just a few minutes a day, and you’ll be amazed at how much better you feel, both physically and mentally.”