Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is a physical disorder that causes prolonged abdominal pain or discomfort, bloating, and abnormal bowel movements including constipation and diarrhea. Classified as a gastrointestinal tract disorder, it can happen at any age and can be more commonly found in women than men. Studies suggest that Irritable Bowel Syndrome can mar the quality of life and even lead to emotional stress.
Remedies to the rescue
People suffering from Irritable Bowel Syndrome are often suggested to reconsider their diet as they might have intolerance towards certain type of foods. Other common recommendations are inclusion of fiber supplements and use of laxatives. Amongst the several remedies available today, one stands out as a time-tested savior – Yoga!
Why Yoga?
Yoga is an ancient technique that works on the physical as well as psychological level and relieves the body of ailments like Irritable Bowel Syndrome. Practicing yoga helps massage different organs and strengthens them. This is turn aids in overcoming the disorder and eventually restores the body to an optimum condition. Yoga is also well known as a relaxation and anxiety alleviating tool, thus helping cope with the emotional stress.
These basic yoga postures can help ease the pain and relieve you of Irritable Bowel Syndrome:
Marjariasana (Cat pose)
The Cat pose tones the abdomen and improves digestion. It helps in overcoming the emotional stress Irritable Bowel Syndrome brings in by relaxing the mind.
Pavanamuktasana (Wind-relieving pose)
The Wind-relieving pose massages the intestine and other abdominal organs thus helping in releasing excess gas from the body.
Adho Mukha Shvanasana (Downward-facing Dog pose)
The Downward-facing Dog pose lengthens the spine and tones the abdominal muscles. This yoga posture also rejuvenates the body by improving blood circulation.
Ardha Matsyendrasana (Sitting Half-Spinal twist)
The Sitting Half-Spinal twist lengthens the spine and is very beneficial for the liver and kidneys. This yoga posture also stimulates the adrenal glands.
Bhujangasana (Cobra pose)
The Cobra pose tones the abdomen by stretching it. It also helps alleviate stress and fatigue and also improves blood circulation.
Dhanurasana (Bow pose)
The Bow pose strengthens the abdominal muscles and relieve the body of stress. Irritable Bowel Syndrome can alleviate menstrual discomfort which this yoga pose effectively helps overcome.
Dietary and lifestyle recommendations
Irritable Bowel Syndrome can be caused due to a weak digestion system or irregular habits. Stressful work conditions and unhealthy lifestyle choices can also aggravate the condition. A minor lifestyle and dietary alteration here can help overcome Irritable Bowel Syndrome – Ayurveda. Literally translated as the “science of life”, Ayurveda is an ancient Indian system of natural and holistic medicine. It balances the different elements in the body and empowers with knowledge to prevent and eliminate diseases.
Patience is the key
Dealing with Irritable Bowel Syndrome can be very painful and taking up yoga will definitely help eliminate the pain. Though highly effective, yoga takes time to manifest its healing capabilities. It is strongly recommended that you keep practicing yoga regularly and don’t give up. With due time, your pain will vanish and the bowel movements will be more timely.
Proceed with caution
The abdominal pain may limit your physical capability to stretch further into a pose. But don’t give up yet! With a regular practice, the body will adapt to the stretches and you’ll be able to stretch further. But respect your body’s physical limits and stretch only as much as you comfortably can.
So stretch up and see how yoga vanishes your Irritable Bowel Syndrome!
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 Art of Living Yoga teacher. In case of any medical condition, practice yoga postures after consulting a doctor and an Art of Living Yoga teacher. Find an Art of Living Yoga course at an Art of Living Center near you. Do you need information on courses or share feedback? Write to us [email protected]
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