A hernia is a condition that occurs when a part of your soft tissue sticks out through your abdominal wall, causing bulging in the abdomen. Although a hernia may not produce any symptoms, you may experience localized pain, swelling or discomfort. Holistic exercises, such as Dao Yin, a method of Qi Gong, can help to alleviate some of the symptoms associated with hernias. However, there is not much scientific evidence to prove that these exercises actually work. Consult your doctor before using any holistic or alternative remedy.
Wide Angle Forward Bend
The wide angle seated forward bend is believed to prevent the development of hernias, according to Livia Kohn in her book, "Chinese Healing Exercises: The Tradition of Daoyin." To perform this pose, sit on the floor with your legs spread as wide apart as possible. Don't exceed your own limits. Stretch your legs as far apart as you can without straining. Bend forward from your hip joint, keeping your back straight. Grab your toes if you can, or place your hands on the floor in front of you. Feel the stretch in your hamstrings and groin. Hold the stretch for 30 seconds to a minute, then return to a seated position.
Butterfly Pose
The butterfly pose is a useful stretch for the groin area and may help to alleviate the discomfort and pain of a hernia. According to Lama Somananda Tantrapa in his book, "Qi Dao - Tibetan Shamanic Qigong: The Art of Being in the Flow, " this pose will help to increase your overall flexibility in the groin area if practiced regularly. Sit on the floor with your knees splayed open and the soles of your feet touching. Hold the soles of your feet with your hands and lean forward, feeling a stretch throughout the inner thighs and groin area. Try to lower your head to your feet without straining. Hold this stretch for several breaths, then return to a seated position.
Uddiyana Bandha
Uddiyana Bandha is a pose that can help to take some of the pressure off of the abdominal wall and possibly alleviate the symptoms of a hernia, according to "Yoga Journal." To perform this pose, stand with your feet hip-width apart. Round your torso slightly forward, with your hands resting on your bent knees.Take a deep inhale, then exhale forcefully and quickly through your nose while you contract your abdominal muscles to expel as much air from your body as possible. Relax your body, inhale and repeat this action five times.
Yongquan / Gushing Spring Point Breathing and Massage
According to the Qi Gong philosophy, the Yongquan point, also known as the Gushing Spring point, is an acupressure point on your feet, located along your kidney meridian. You can find this point on the sole of your foot right beneath your toes. If you curl your toes, you'll find an indentation near the middle of your foot. This is the Yongquan point. Treating this point is thought to alleviate hernia, according to Compassionate Dragon Healing. Massaging, and consciously breathing into this point helps to keep you grounded and promotes a positive energy flow. Place your thumbs on this point and breathe in, focusing on inhaling energy into this region of your body. Exhale and relax. Continue to breathe in this manner for several minutes.
