Both a meditative art and a form of physical exercise, yoga attempts to unify the mind and body through various stretches and sustained poses. Yoga practitioners also claim the movements can help treat various medical problems, including digestive ailments such as irritable bowel syndrome, acid indigestion, constipation and a generally sluggish metabolism.
Fish Pose
Performing the fish pose reportedly helps ease constipation. Lie on your back with your hands under your hips, palms pressed to the floor and your thumbs touching. While inhaling, lift your chest to the ceiling and place the crown of your head on the floor. Continue breathing normally and hold the position for as long as you can. When finished, lift your head and look down toward your feet before slowly flattening your spine to the ground.
Lying Thunderbolt
A more advanced version of the fish pose, the lying thunderbolt begins in a kneeling position. Take a deep breath and slowly lean backwards using your arms for support until the crown of your head touches the ground. Now fold your hands in front of your chest so only your head and lower legs are in contact with the floor. Keep your knees anchored in place and hold the stretch for several seconds before relaxing back to the starting position. The lying thunderbolt supposedly helps direct blood to the abdomen to aid digestion and enhance the metabolism. Individuals with chronic knee problems should avoid this pose, as it may place too much stress on the knees.
Boat Pose
To perform the boat pose, sit on the ground with your legs straight in front of you. Take a deep breath and exhale as you lift your legs in the air. At the same time, place your hands behind your head and interlock your fingers. Continue to breathe normally as you balance with your legs in the air. Yoga practitioners claim the boat pose eases constipation, improves digestion and enhances the metabolism.
Cobra Pose
Start this position lying on your stomach with your legs stretched straight back and your feet pointed so the tops of the feet rest against the floor. Position your palms flat on the ground near your hips. Now press your upper body off the ground, lifting your head straight towards the ceiling while keeping your legs flat to the floor. Holding the stretch may help stimulate the metabolism and improve overall digestive health.
