Kathryn Terrill: Why is yoga good for digestion?
Claire Evans: When observing any system of the body with Iyengar Yoga, the whole body is considered. Optimal health occurs when all organs and systems (all five sheaths) are working together in harmony and vitality. For this reason, Iyengar Yoga places a focus on digestive health as much as any of the other bodily organs and systems.
According to Iyengar Yoga, the importance of keeping the digestive tract in healthy working order cannot be overstated, as a build-up of accumulated wastes keeps toxins in the body. This can cause all systems to become sluggish and strained, and the mind may become dull and one may feel heavy and irritable.
As the digestive system travels throughout a large portion of the body, many asanas (postures) may help to correct, improve and support the digestive processes. A small amount of food and water can be consumed before class but once class has begun no food or water is to be taken. This gives all systems of the body (esp. the digestive system) a period of time during which it can function undisturbed.
KT: In what way can the asanas (postures) help?
CE: Asanas activate the gross (large) muscles of the body to lift, lengthen and align the skeletal frame. The internal muscles that hold firm the organic body are strengthened, also increasing contraction and release around the organs. Breath can enter the body more freely and blood flow through the body is increased, allowing for greater receiving of nutrients and releasing of toxins.
KT: Can you give me some examples of asanas that may help to aid digestion?
CE: TADASANA (Mountain pose) is a fundamental posture to begin practice with, as it engages all of the structural muscles and challenges one to work towards balance and stability. As the spine is lifted, more space is made for the digestive organs.
VIRABADRASANA I (Warrior pose no.1)
This asana is one where the whole front body is given a long stretch. Through grounding the back heel and revolving the torso forward, one stretches the whole front of the body, from thigh to extended fingers. The psoas muscle, the intestines, the gastric organs, and the lungs are opened, and the lifting of the diaphragm gives the digestive organs relief and space.
PARVA KONASANA (Extended side-angle pose)
This is a lateral standing pose. Here the side of the body is lengthened and the diaphragm is lifted off the organic body allowing space for the upper organs to process and release food stuffs. Breath can freely enter the body and more space is given to the digestive region.
Look out for part 2 of this article for more asanas for digestive health
Claire Evans is a Level II Iyengar Yoga teacher, as well as a Reiki Master and massage therapist. She teaches yoga classes regularly in Byron Shire on the north coast of NSW.
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