We commonly think about how yoga can help improve our strength and flexibility, but what about other issues? There are certain yoga poses that can actually help to relieve constipation.
Just to note, constipation can occur from many different issues and these yoga poses do not address all of these. These poses can be helpful in relieving constipation that is due to food moving slowly through your GI system. Basically, these poses stimulate movement of food through the intestines to help get things moving.
If you are dealing with constipation, I highly suggest you check out one of my previous posts that goes into much more detail on the possible causes of constipation. Click here to see this post.
Disclaimer: Constipation can cause or be caused by serious medical issues. Always be sure to consult with your doctor if you are experiencing constipation.
Due to the nature of twisting and forward bending in the poses listed below, they are not recommended for those who have low bone density (osteopenia/osteoporosis).
Before doing the poses listed below, I recommend doing some type of warm-up. A few sun salutations are a great way to warm-up for yoga.
With yoga poses, you can go with your intuition on how long you want to hold a pose but if you would like guidance, you can hold these poses for 10 seconds and repeat 3 times.
3 Yoga poses for constipation relief
Disclaimer: If you have any injuries or medical conditions, check with your doctor before practicing.
1. Revolved cresent lunge (parivṛtta aṅjaneyāsana)
Twisting poses are a really great way to stimulate digestion and can be helpful when dealing with constipation.
There are two options for revolved crescent. Both options are shown in high lunge, but you can also do these poses in low lunge (with the back knee down on the earth).
2. Seated spinal twist (ardha matsyendrāsana)
3. Knees to chest (pavanamuktāsana)
I hope you found these poses helpful. For a full guided practice focused on boosting digestion, check out the video below.