Your body has two kidneys, located in your abdominal region. Your kidneys are organs with several important functions. They work together to filter and clean your blood, remove wastes into your urine and regulate electrolytes and blood pressure. Because your kidneys perform such important tasks, it is imperative that they are in top working form. These yoga exercises will help keep your kidneys healthy and functioning well. You should practice them daily to help maintain your kidneys, however they should only be used as a compliment to your physician's regular instructions. Before beginning these exercises, be sure to speak with your doctor.
Cobra
Bhujangasana, or Cobra Pose, is one yoga position that is good for your kidneys by providing them with increased blood flow, stretching and stimulation. In addition to benefiting your kidneys, it also stretches and opens the muscles of your chest and shoulders and helps reduce stress, according to the website Yoga Wiz.
To do Cobra Pose, lie on your stomach on the floor with your hands under your shoulders. Put your palms on the ground and bend your arms so your elbows point upwards. Press your upper body upwards by pushing into the ground with the tops of your feet, thighs and pelvis, and by straightening your arms. Raise your head so that your entire upper body is in an arc position and remember to breathe.
Cat Pose
Another asana that will benefit your kidneys is Marjaryasana, also known as Cat Pose. In Cat Pose, your abdominal organs are gently massaged, according to "Yoga Journal". Additionally, you will feel a stretch in your back and neck by practicing this pose. To perform Cat Pose, position yourself on all fours, with your palms and knees on the ground and your entire back straight. Begin to curl the top of your head downwards. Then slowly start to arch your back until your entire spine in curved. Tuck your abdominal muscles and pelvis and pull your stomach in. Hold here and breathe.
Cow Pose
Bitilasana, also known as Cow Pose, also massages your spine and works well when alternated with Cat Pose, according to "Yoga Journal". Cow Pose begins in the same position as Cat Pose. To do Cow Pose, however, instead or arching up you arch down. To do this, slowly raise your seat, neck and head. While lifting in these places, lower your stomach towards the ground. Hold here and breathe. Alternate Cow and Cat Poses for optimal benefits.
Half Lord of the Fishes Pose
Ardha Matsyendrasana, or Half Lord of the Fishes Pose, is yet another yoga posture that focuses on your kidneys. Performing this posture will stimulate your kidneys as well your liver, and stretch your shoulders, neck and hips.
To get into this twisted pose, Yoga Wiz suggests you start sitting on the floor. Bend your legs and put one under the other. Keeping your knees bent, place the sole of one foot on the ground so that your knee points up. Place the side of the other foot on the ground keeping your knee on the ground. Once in this position, twist your upper body towards the knee that is pointing upwards. Turn your head in this direction as well, and try to look over your shoulder, remembering to breathe. Then repeat this posture on the other side, so that your body feels balanced and both kidneys are stimulated.
