Postures for acid reflux

(November 9, 2010)

I'm having the acid reflux, and Now i'm learning Yoga so i wanna to know izzit certain posture is not suitable for me ?

Yoga is ancient form of exercise which is known to have many health benefits. It helps in toning and strengthening the muscles and also alleviates tension and stress. Yoga is especially beneficial in treating problems of the spine. There are certain yoga exercises which are known to be effective in treating acid reflux and heartburn. Although there are no specific yoga poses for acid reflux, some postures do enhance the digestive process and the functioning of various organs that influence and affect acid reflux, making the treatment of acid reflux with yoga quite effective.
Pranayam or breathing exercises are the simplest type of yoga exercise. It is essentially a control over one’s breathing. This induces meditation and relaxation, the benefits of which are plenty. Tension and mental stress are relieved. The respiratory system is also strengthened and blood circulation in the body is enhanced. To begin breathing exercises, you may sit in any comfortable position with the body relaxed. Inhale deeply by pushing the abdomen out and then exhale by contracting the abdominal muscles. It is important not to exert strain on the body muscles while breathing. This can be done at any time of the day, except immediately after meals. Treating acid reflux with yoga also includes certain physical postures such as Sukhasana (Easy Pose), Bidalasana (Cat Pose) and Adho Mukho Svanasana (Downward Facing Dog Pose). Heartburn is also referred to as hiatal hernia. Hiatal hernia yoga helps to relieve the discomfort caused by heartburn. Pavanamuktasana (Wind Relieving Pose) is an especially beneficial acid reflux exercise since it eases excess gas from the digestive system. To perform this pose, lie down on your back and raise the left knee to the chest. Wrap your hands around the knee and lift your head towards it. Hold this pose for a few seconds and then release. This can then be repeated with the right knee.
Digestion takes place properly when the body is relaxed and hence once should not perform yoga immediately after a meal. Yoga is most beneficial when performed in the morning after having a glass of warm lime juice to which some honey has been added. Eat only after thirty minutes following a yoga session. In case you wish to perform yoga in the evening, try not to eat anything for at least three hours before the session. Many people also perform pilates for acid reflux since it helps to strengthen the abdominal and diaphragm muscles and also make them more flexible. Managing acid reflux with pilates aids in proper digestion and hence prevents symptoms of heartburn.

Submitted by A on November 9, 2010 at 05:01

There are many yoga postures for acid reflux that help in bringing relief to the symptoms. One of the effective yoga postures for acid reflux is the Sukhasana (Easy pose). The Easy pose is a popular exercise which is easy to perform. The practice of this yoga posture for acid reflux helps to stretch the spinal cord, maintaining the metabolic rate and bringing about relaxation. Bidalasana (Cat pose) is also an effective yoga posture for acid reflux. Practice of this pose helps in coordinating your movements and breathing patterns. These two elements help in keeping the mind relaxed and preventing stomach problems. Yoga postures for acid reflux work on many fronts. Apart from the direct effect on the digestive system’s functioning yoga postures for acid reflux also work indirectly, via their effect on relaxation and stimulation and strengthening of various other organs and glands that influence the digestive process.

Performing the different yoga postures for GERD helps in making the gastric system stronger. Regular practice of yoga ensures better digestion of food. When food is properly digested it is difficult for GERD to take hold. The Wind Relieving Pose (Pavanamuktasana) is an effective yoga posture for GERD. The Wind Relieving Pose helps improve the functioning of the digestive system and gets rid of the gas accumulated in the stomach.

Sukhasana (Easy pose) and Adho Mukha Shvanasana (Dog Pose)are excellent postures for heart burn. To perform the Easy pose you should sit on the ground with your legs crossed and feet just under the knees. With your palms facing up place your hands on your knees. Let your hip come towards the floor and then move your head up to lengthen the spine. Let your shoulders drop down and bring your chest forward. Relax your facial muscles and keep your tongue to the roof of your mouth.

Shalabhasana (Locust pose) and Pranayama (Breath exercise) are helpful yoga postures for dyspepsia. The practice of Pranayama helps in relaxing the stomach organs and improving the circulation of blood. Surya Namaskar (Sun salutation), Jallundhar Bandha (Chin lock) and Shava Asana (Corpse pose) are other effective yoga postures for dyspepsia. Practice of yoga postures for ulcer helps by decreasing the production of acid, massaging the internal organs, and improving the function of the glands. Bhujangasan (Cobra pose) and Balasana (Child’s pose) are also good yoga postures for ulcer.

You can also use these yoga postures for heartburn. For these yoga postures to be most effective you must practice them regularly. You should also make sure that you eat the right foods and avoid the wrong ones. Raw vegetables like lettuce, cucumber, flax seeds, and carrots should be part of your diet. You should refrain from taking tea, alcohol, coffee, and processed foods. It is important that you consult a doctor and not depend only on alternative methods.

Submitted by A on September 16, 2010 at 08:57

You must do the following for instant and long term relief:

Kunjal Kriya daily for 10 days then twice a week for 6 months
Stick to a Yoga Diet and avoid non-veg, spicy and fatty foods
Take Ayurvedic treatment. (Please consult an Ayurvaid)
Drink plenty of water
Do more of inverted poses like Headstand, Shoulderstand and Viparita Karani
Do at least 15 minutes of Shavasana 3 times a day

Submitted by A on August 3, 2007 at 06:11