Bloating and gas can be uncomfortable and irritating especially when you are surrounded by people at the workplace or around friends. While dietary changes and medication can help in relieving its symptoms, yoga can also help in alleviating the symptoms of gas and bloating.
To learn specific yogasanas helpful for alleviating gas and bloating, OnlyMyHealth interacted with Himalayan Siddhaa Akshar, Yoga and Spiritual Leader, Founder of Akshar Yoga Kendraa.
Yoga Poses For Gas And Bloating
Let’s explore a holistic and natural approach to finding relief from gas and bloating.
Wind-Relieving Pose (Pavanamuktasana)
Wind-Relieving Pose is a simple yet effective yoga posture for relieving gas and bloating. “Lie flat on your back and bring one knee towards your chest, clasping your hands around it. Hold the position for several breaths, then switch to the other leg. This yoga pose helps stimulate digestion and release trapped gas in the digestive tract,” Akshar said.
Seated Forward Bend (Paschimottanasana)
Seated Forward Bend stretches the entire back of the body, including the digestive organs. “Sit on the floor with your legs extended in front of you, then fold forward from the hips, reaching towards your feet. Keep your spine straight and breathe deeply. This pose improves digestion by massaging the abdominal organs and relieving tension in the digestive system,” said Akshar.
Cat-Cow Pose (Marjaryasana)
“Cat-Cow Pose is a gentle flowing movement that promotes spinal flexibility and massages the organs of the abdomen,” said Akshar. Start on your hands and knees, alternating between arching your back like a cat and dropping your belly towards the floor like a cow. This rhythmic motion stimulates digestion and helps alleviate gas and bloating.
Child's Pose (Balasana)
Child's Pose is a restorative yoga posture that gently compresses the abdomen, promoting the release of trapped gas. Kneel on the floor and sit back on your heels, then fold forward, resting your forehead on the ground and extending your arms in front of you or by your sides. Hold the pose and focus on deep, slow breaths to encourage relaxation and relieve bloating.
Supine Twist (Supta Matsyendrasana)
As per Akshar, Supine Twist is a reclined yoga pose that stretches the spine, hips, and abdominal muscles while stimulating digestion. Lie on your back with your arms extended to the sides, then bend one knee and cross it over your body, twisting towards the opposite side. Hold the pose and breathe deeply, allowing the twist to wring out tension and gas from the digestive system.
Downward-Facing Dog (Adho Mukha Svanasana)
Downward-Facing Dog is a classic yoga pose that energizes the entire body and encourages circulation. Start on your hands and knees, then lift your hips towards the ceiling, straightening your arms and legs to form an inverted V shape. This pose helps improve digestion by lengthening the spine and creating space in the abdomen for optimal function.
Cobra Pose (Bhujangasana)
Cobra Pose is a backbend that strengthens the spine and opens the chest, promoting better breathing and digestion. Lie on your stomach with your hands under your shoulders, then press into your palms and lift your chest off the ground, keeping your elbows close to your body. Hold the pose and breathe deeply, allowing the gentle compression of the abdomen to aid in digestion.
Bridge Pose (Setu Bandhasana)
Bridge Pose is a gentle backbend that stretches the spine and stimulates the abdominal organs, including the digestive system. Explaining the pose, Akshar said, “Lie on your back with your knees bent and feet hip-width apart, then lift your hips towards the ceiling, pressing into your feet and shoulders. Hold the pose and focus on deep, rhythmic breathing to encourage the flow of energy and relieve bloating.”
By incorporating these yoga poses into your daily routine, you can effectively alleviate gas and bloating while promoting overall digestive health. Remember to practice mindfulness and listen to your body's cues as you perform each pose. With consistent practice, you can experience greater comfort and well-being in your digestive system, allowing you to fully enjoy each day without the discomfort of gas and bloating.