Yoga to Improve Digestion

It’s that time of year – when our usual “eat well” routines race out the window in exchange for brief moments of culinary delight – freshly baked breads, homemade candies, comforting dishes that only Mom or Grandma can prepare perfectly.  Yet, along with the delight sometimes comes the indigestion.

I know, it’s not a very holiday-happy topic.  This week and next, we’ll partake of many foods we’re not used to eating and I thought some poses for better digestion might do the trick in getting us back to feeling ourselves.

Remember, always wait a couple hours after eating a full meal to do these stretches and twists.

Lying Down Poses:

Knees to Chest: Lie on your back and hug your knees toward your chest.  Breathe slowly and fully.  Gently rock side-to-side or just hold your legs toward you and rest.

Recline Twist:  On your back with your feet on the floor right under your knees, bring your arms out to a T (shoulder height).  Inhale gently and as you exhale allow your legs to rest to the right side. Relax your shoulders down from the ears and breathe.  Stay here 6-8 breaths and gently reverse.

Kneeling & Seated Poses:

Cat & Cow:  On all 4’s (wrists under shoulders and knees under hips),  inhale as you let your belly release and draw your sternum forward. Exhale as you reverse the motion, pressing your hands into the floor and rounding your back. Continue slowing 4-6 times.

Seated Twist: While seated comfortably on the floor (either legs crossed or legs open in a V), breathe gently feeling your spine lengthen.  Gently cross your right hand to rest on your left knee and place your left hand lightly by your left hip.  On an exhale, gently allow your belly, rib cage, chest, shoulders and head to twist gently to the left.  Find something to look at at eye level. Hold and breathe for 4-6 breaths. Gently unwind and reverse the twist to the other side.

Rest in a comfortable position and find your 3-part breath.  Enjoy!