With the chilly wind and cloudy sky, most of us find it difficult to remain faithful to our workout routine. Hours of inactivity, lesser hydration and rich food can adversely affect our digestion leading to conditions such as bloating. Practising yoga each morning not only warms up the body but also improves blood circulation and metabolism, aiding in digestion during winter. Incorporating specific yoga poses designed to gently massage the digestive organs can help reduce bloating, improve gut health, and help you feel lighter.
Here are 10 yoga poses that support digestive health and boost your energy:
- Cat-Cow Stretch (Marjaryasana-Bitilasana): Moving between Cat and Cow stretches opens up the spine, massages the abdominal organs, and encourages blood flow to the digestive tract. This gentle movement helps alleviate bloating and boosts digestion.
- Seated Forward Bend (Paschimottanasana): Folding forward stretches the spine and stimulates the abdominal organs, aiding in digestion and relieving mild constipation. This pose also calms the mind, helping to reduce stress that can interfere with digestive health.
- Wind-Relieving Pose (Pavanamuktasana): Bringing the knees to the chest while lying down gently compresses the intestines, which relieves trapped gas and aids in digestion. Practising this pose can also support regular bowel movements and ease bloating.
- Bow Pose (Dhanurasana): In this pose, lying on the stomach while lifting the chest and legs creates a stretch that stimulates the digestive organs. This position increases blood flow and metabolism, which can be especially helpful for sluggish digestion during winter.
- Half Lord of the Fishes (Ardha Matsyendrasana): This twisting posture massages the liver, kidneys, and intestines, promoting detoxification and improved digestive function. Twisting also helps release tension in the lower back, which can further support digestive ease.
- Reclining Twist (Supta Matsyendrasana): Reclining in a gentle twist relaxes the digestive tract and massages the intestines, relieving bloating and discomfort. It’s a soothing pose that supports circulation and helps ease digestive discomfort.
- Camel Pose (Ustrasana): This backbend stimulates the adrenaline glands, and opens up the chest, supporting digestion. The pose also enhances spinal flexibility, which can help improve overall bodily alignment and function.
- Boat Pose (Navasana): Strengthening the core in Boat Pose helps activate the pelvic muscles, in turn improving digestion. This pose also enhances core stability and fosters good balance.
- Child’s Pose (Balasana): Child’s Pose relaxes the lower back and abdomen, reducing stress and calming the mind, which has a positive impact on digestion. This resting posture encourages diaphragmatic breathing, aiding the digestive process.
- Corpse Pose (Savasana): Ending with Corpse Pose allows the body and mind to completely relax, which lowers stress and promotes healthier digestion. Relaxing in this pose encourages blood flow to the digestive organs, supporting overall digestive health.
Incorporating these poses each winter morning can stimulate digestion, boost metabolism, and reduce discomfort.