Stomach bloating: Four yoga moves to improve the stomach bloating

Many of us have experienced the feeling of being bloated when we have eaten too much or too quickly. However, bloating is not always linked to overeating and some people may suffer from bloating on a regular basis, even when they didn’t consume a large meal. A way to combat the feeling of being bloated also might not come down to foods to avoid. Yoga has been proven to help reduce the bloat, stretch belly muscles and help kick-start the digestive system. What are four of the best yoga moves to soothe a bloated stomach.

Downward-facing dog

This yoga practice staple helps relieve the uncomfortable gas buildup in the stomach by improving the circulation to stimulate digestion.

It’s named after the way dogs naturally stretch their entire bodies and helps rejuvenate the whole body. To do this position, stand with your feet hips-width apart, bend at the waist until your hands touch the floor and then position the body into an inverted ‘V’ shape.

Take several deep breaths, make sure your arms are shoulder-width apart and press hands and feet firmly to the floor.

Upward-facing dog

This position provides optimal belly stretching while elongating the abdominal muscles by pushing bloat out of the belly.

Lie on the floor on your stomach and stretch your legs back with the tops of your feet remaining on the floor. Lift your body upwards as if you were doing a push-up.

Push yourself up by lifting through the sternum and stretch your chest open, elongating the belly.

Knees to chest

Known as the ‘wind relieving pose’ this is also a great position for anyone experience abdominal pain.

This simple stretch will help relieve digestive problems by bringing the knees to the chest which will soothe the belly, improve digestion and release any buildup of gas. Breath in and then exhale whilst bending the knees and then slowly bring them up to the chest, hugging your legs into your body.

You can gently rock form side to side and raise your chin towards your knees.

Child’s pose

Known as the ‘grounding pose’ and an easy move to always come back to when needing to relieve bloating pain.

Start by kneeling on the floor, hips rising on the heels of your feet and then bend at the waist whilst reading your arms out in front of you.

Try to stretch as far as possible and slowly crawl your fingers forward. Once you find the optimal position, breath in and out for about 20 to 30 seconds.

Most of us have experienced the feeling of being bloated, when your tummy is stretched, puffy and uncomfortable

NHS

Benefits of yoga include:

• Improve flexibility, strength and posture
• Better all round fitness
• Increased energy
• Stress reduction
• Better breathing
• Become more mindful and happier

The NHS said: “Most of us have experienced the feeling of being bloated, when your tummy is stretched, puffy and uncomfortable.

“It often happens after a big weekend or over a festive season. Get rid of bloating by cutting out fizzy drinks and foods that cause wind.

“Sit down to eat and take regular exercise.”

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