We all are aware of the age-old adage that says health is wealth, and when it comes to maintaining good health, nothing can be better than yoga for acid reflux. According to traditions, the mythical Saptarishis, or seven sages, were introduced to yoga by the first yogi and guru, the Adiyogi and the Adiguru. The seven sages propagated this beautiful art form and technique throughout the entire planet.
Yoga seeks to harmonise your mind, body, and nature. Various ailments, including those related to emotional well-being, weight reduction, bone disorders, and brain function, have been successfully treated with the proper guidance and indulgence in yoga practice. Yoga poses for acid reflux have proven highly effective for the human body. Without further ado, let us dive into yoga and how it can assist us with health problems relating to our digestive tracts.
How is yoga beneficial in resolving gastric-related health issues?
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Yoga and Ayurveda are considered to be sister sciences by many of them. Together, they can positively impact the well-being of your health to the highest possible degree. According to Ayurvedic medicine, all health problems are spurred by an imbalance between the three elements, or Doshas. You are believed to be in excellent health when the three doshas—Vatta, Pitta, and Kapha—are in equilibrium. But one of these elements can cause health problems if there is an imbalance or overabundance.
Digestive problems are the contributing factor responsible for leading to significant stomach issues. Ayurveda also states that the imbalance of the Vatta Dosha or the air element is to be blamed for this health condition. All of our digestive systems fall under the influence of Vatta Dosha. It is highly possible to soothe the Vatta, which aids in the relief and alleviation of digestive issues. The continuous practice of yoga can effectively heal and sustain humanity.
These three Doshas place a significant emphasis on all of the yoga poses and practices. There are yoga postures that regulate and balance our Vatta Dosha, thereby aiding in treating our gastrointestinal issues. These yoga poses help us by using adequate and appropriate breathing techniques that enormously impact our digestive system.
Here are the various yoga poses and practices for gastric-related health concerns.
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Pawanmuktasana
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The wind release pose or gas release pose is also known as Pawanmuktasana. As the name implies, Pawanmuktasana is derived from the two terms "Pawan," which means wind or gas, and "Mukta," which indicates release or comfort.
This pose assists by enabling the gas in our stomachs to dissipate. Generally speaking, indigestion from overeating creates gas. Other issues besides stomach discomfort are brought on by indigestion, including headaches, joint pain, etc.
What are the health benefits of Pawanmuktasana?
- It aids in eliminating the gas produced as a result of indigestion.
- Strengthens the back, biceps, triceps, and hip muscles.
How do you perform Pawanmuktasana?
- On a mat, start by lying down supine. Take a couple of deep breaths and extend your arms and legs. It is the starting position. The following posture is also referred to as Savasana.
- Make a 90-degree angle with your thighs by flexing your knees.
- Exhale as you lift your knees to your chest.
- Bring your head and knees together at the same time.
- Hold onto this position for a short while, then release it.
- While you maintain your posture, keep your breathing regular.
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Balasana
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Shashankasana and Garbhasana are the other names for this pose in yoga. Balasana, where "Bala" stands for kid and "asana" denotes posture, refers to the child's stance.
Balasana is a yoga pose frequently used to conclude a yoga practice session. Prolonged, short, and consistent breathing is preferred while performing this technique. The underlying concept is that you should breathe in while stretching and out when flexing.
What are the health benefits of Balasana?
- It alleviates tension, anxiety, and weariness.
- It improves digestion.
- It relieves back discomfort.
How do you perform Balasana?
- Kneel in Vajrasana or flexed kneeling and sit back on your heels.
- Let out a sigh of breath to begin. At shoulder height level, extend your hands into the air perpendicularly parallel to the ground.
- To bend forward until your forehead reaches the floor, flex your hips.
- Hold this position for a few breaths while breathing normally, then exhale and return to the starting position.
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Paschimottanasana
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One of the fundamental asanas practised while seated is Paschimottanasana, sometimes referred to as the seated forward bend stance. One of the best yoga for acid reflux, and as the name suggests, the primary goal of this pose is to flex the hip joint, which increases its overall flexibility movement.
What are the health benefits of Paschimottanasana?
- The digestive system is under more pressure as the body is stretched forward. It enhances digestion, which aids conditions relating to the stomach.
- Your entire body is calmed and relaxed by something like this. It also lessens stress and anxiety.
- It gives the spinal column a suitable shape and workout and helps those with back problems.
- Patients with diabetes and liver issues have reportedly benefited from all of this.
How do you perform Paschimottanasana?
- Lay out your legs as you sit down on a mat.
- Lift your arms above your head, pointing them upwards as you take a deep breath.
- Let a sigh of breath out. Flexing from the lower spine to the hips, lean forward. So that your chest is close to your knees and your hands are near your feet.
- Without elevating the knees or the head, maintain this position for a few seconds while breathing normally, then inhale to return to the initial position.
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Supta Matsyendrasana
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The Sanskrit word "Supta" means to recline, "Matsya" means fish, and "Endra" alludes to Lord Indra. These words are the origins of the term "Supta Matsyendrasana." As a result, the term "Matsyendrasana" refers to the stance known as the Lord of the Fishes.
This pose is a modified variation of Ardha Matsyendrasana, performed while seated. Your spine and abdomen are the targets of Supta Matsyendrasa's twisting techniques. As a result, the phrase "twisted spine position" is frequently used to describe this posture.
What are the health benefits of Supta Matsyendrasana?
- It enhances the spine's flexibility and gives it a correct form and shape.
- This asana decreases the likelihood of back pain.
- It aids those with insomnia by easing the body and mental weariness and potentially bringing on sleep.
- It enhances digestion and treats gastric issues.
- It stimulates the interior organs.
How do you perform Supta Matsyendrasana?
- Lie on your back on a mat in a supine position.
- Your sides should align with your shoulder as you extend your shoulder laterally.
- Let out a sigh of breath to begin. The right knee is bent near your chest. Also, cross it across your midline so that your left knee is on the floor and your right knee is touching it.
- Stretch your neck to the other side so your head faces the left simultaneously.
- Hold on for a moment, then return to your starting position.
- Repeat the same procedure with the other leg.
- As you inhale, move to the centre and exhale while switching to the other side and holding.
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Ananda Balasana
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Balasana has been altered to become Ananda Balasana. As the name implies, this stance is sometimes referred to as the happy baby pose. Ananda denotes contentment, and Bala represents a baby. Given that the asana resembles a happy baby or a dead bug, some practitioners call it the dead bug posture.
But a positive attitude makes the relaxed infant pose one of the most popular home remedies for acid reflux. Ananda Balasana is frequently used as a warm-up pose to prepare the body for more upcoming challenging poses.
What are the health benefits of Ananda Balasana?
- It stretches the muscles of the biceps, triceps, hip, thigh, and leg.
- Improves the heart rate.
- It provides your spine with a proper shape and lengthens it.
- Advantageous for those with lower back discomfort.
- It enhances digestion and treats gastrointestinal issues.
How do you perform Ananda Balasana?
- Lay on your back in a prone position on a mat.
- Bend your knees toward your chest as you exhale.
- Try gripping the thumb of each foot with its corresponding hand.
- Hold on to this position for a few seconds while breathing before letting go.
- Set yourself free to return to the beginning stance by taking a deep breath.
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Halasana
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Two Sanskrit words—"Hala," which means plough (a farming implement extensively used by Indian farmers to prepare the land before sowing the seeds), and "asana," which implies pose—combine to form the word "halasana." As a result, this stance is also known as the plough pose.
This yoga enables you to go deeper into your mind and achieve serenity, just like the plough is used to delve into the deeper soil layers. Yoga can be difficult; therefore, it might require patience and practice to become proficient. It would be best to perfect your breathing technique and have adequate flexibility to master this acid reflux remedy.
What are the health benefits of Halasana?
- It increases flexibility and strengthens your back, hamstrings, neck, and other muscles.
- Aids in weight loss.
- It also positively affects several internal organs, including the thyroid, pituitary, and pancreas.
- It relieves constipation and enhances digestion.
- Patients with diabetes, asthma, headaches, sinusitis, sleeplessness, cough, cold, and other conditions have also reported benefits.
How do you perform Halasana?
- Supinely lay on your back over a mat. Keep your palms flat on the ground.
- Lift your legs against gravity as you inhale, pressing your palms into the ground.
- Raising your legs, bring them back until your toes are in contact with the floor behind your head.
- Hold this posture for a few seconds while breathing normally. Make sure the pressure does not impact the neck.
- Release the position, place your palms on the ground, and roll your back down carefully while using your core strength to prevent injury.
Final Thoughts
Yoga is a natural way and the best medicine for acidity and gas to address your health concerns and difficulties. If you perform it correctly and according to professional guidelines, there are no adverse effects. However, you should speak with an RMP (Registered Medical Practitioner) as soon as possible if you have a health concern.
Do take your meds as prescribed and abide by your doctor's advice. Spend at least 30 minutes at the end of the day on these strategies to heal more rapidly and efficiently. Till then, stay safe and healthy.
