Infections and leaked bacteria from urine can cause prostatitis, a prostate disease that leads to groin pain, difficulty urinating, painful urination and similar symptoms in men. If left untreated, prostatitis can become chronic or cause problems with fertility and quality of life. A regular yoga practice, along with conventional treatment, can promote prostate health by strengthening the muscles in your pelvic area.
Treatment
Bacterial prostatitis is treated with antibiotics; this is the only way to effectively kill the bacteria causing the condition. Always take the full amount of antibiotics you're prescribed, even if symptoms go away quickly. Chronic prostatitis that isn't caused by bacteria can be treated with alpha blockers, and everyday pain can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers. A doctor can also perform prostatic massage to relieve chronic prostatitis and pelvic pain.
Yoga Connection
A regular yoga practice can promote general prostate health by making you more aware and in control of your pelvic area. Yoga can make your core muscles stronger and more flexible and can also relieve tension in the pelvic area. Pair yoga with a low-fat and plant-heavy diet to keep your prostate even healthier.
Kegel exercises also help strengthen the muscles around the prostate and are sometimes incorporated into yoga practice. Contract the muscles around your anus as if you are trying to hold in urine or gas. Hold for a count of 10, slowly release and repeat. Do up to 10 contractions several times a day.
Head and Shoulder Stands
Inversions such as head and shoulder stands get blood flowing to your prostate. If you're new to yoga, start with a simple shoulder stand. Lie on a yoga mat and place a blanket under your shoulders for support if needed. Keep your head and shoulders on the ground, and slowly lift your legs and torso toward the ceiling. Place your hands on your back for support, with elbows on the ground. Hold for 30 seconds the first time you do the pose, and try to add extra time as you get stronger. You can also progress to a full headstand -- please do this with a spotter, not alone -- if you wish.
Boat Pose
This pose stimulates the prostate and strengthens the abdominal muscles. Sit straight up on your mat with legs extended in front of you. Lean backward slightly while keeping your back straight and lift your legs off the floor at roughly the same angle as your back. Stretch your arms along your legs, parallel to the floor. Hold for 10 to 20 seconds at first, gradually increasing to one minute.
Reclining Big Toe Pose
This pose also stimulates the prostate and promotes good digestion. Lie flat on your mat and extend one leg up until it's perpendicular to the floor. Use a strap to stretch your leg by wrapping it around your foot and pulling gently. Imagine you're pulling your foot above your head, but keep your leg in the same position. Hold here for one to three minutes, then guide your leg out to the side and hold again. Repeat with the other leg.
