Yoga and Constipation

Yoga Articles > Yoga and Constipation

 

“Sometimes small things can make your life difficult” — How often have we heard this sentence in our life? Numerous times, I guess! If we have to describe at least one of those so-called ‘small things’, constipation can very well be the first thing that comes to our mind.


Yes, constipation — a common and a major problem. It won’t be wrong to say that at least half of the world’s population suffers from it currently. Besides, every person in his or her lifetime may have faced this problem at some point of time. Constipation may sound as a small thing initially, but if neglected for a long period, it can lead to many serious complications like abdomen pain, formation of wind, appetite loss, headache, lethargy, distension of the abdomen, nervous exhaustion, pimples, rheumatism, arthritis and lastly, the deadly cancer.

Although the usage of laxatives provide temporary relief, it becomes ineffective in the long run because of its constant use. Doctors also warn not to use laxatives regularly. Yoga proves highly effective in the treatment of constipation. The following asanas are very important for a person who is suffering from constipation:

• Bhujanghasana: It removes constipation and gas and helps in digestion.
• Trikonasana: It helps a person to pass stool normally.
• Ardha Matsyendrasana: It increases the digestive fire and provides relief from constipation.
• Supta Vajrasana: It helps in digestion and provides relief from constipation.

Besides, these four asanas, a person who is suffering from chronic constipation, should also try Dhanurasana, Sarvangasana, Kapalbhati, Bhastrika and Mayurasana.


All these yoga poses work on the abdominal movement and hence make it easier to pass the stool. These asanas also help in improving the human digestive system and therefore, eradicate constipation completely from your system. In addition to curing constipation, these yoga postures also provides relief from other disorders, if combined with a healthy diet and adequate sleep.


However, all these asanas should be practise under the expert supervision of a Yoga Guru. Besides, if you are pregnant or having a heart disorder, then these postures should be avoided.


Apart from practicing yoga, a constipation patient should not have too much of tea, coffee or junk food. The diet should be healthy and balanced and at least 1.5 litres of water should be consumed by the person.


Finally, remember that Yoga is not only for the yogis. It’s just not constipation that can be cured by yoga but also various dreadful diseases. So make yoga a part of your life in order to lead a healthy and happy life.