Stomach bloating - three yoga ‘rescue remedies’ to prevent trapped wind pain
STOMACH bloating can be caused by certain foods in your diet, or by eating too much. But you can get rid of a swollen belly or trapped wind pain.
Dr Pixie McKenna on digestive health and bloating
Most people have had stomach bloating at some point in their lifetime, according to the NHS.
Feeling bloated is when the tummy feels stretched and uncomfortable.
It’s usually caused by eating too much food over a short period of time.
But, some yoga poses could help to get rid of stomach bloating or trapped wind pain, according to nutritionist Maeve Madden.
These are the three best yoga poses you should be doing when you’re feeling bloated.
Stomach bloating: Prevent trapped wind with these yoga exercise poses
Spinal twist
This yoga pose begins on your back, with your knees bent and feet flat on the floor.
Relax your arms, and let them drop to your side.
Drop your right leg sideways, onto the floor. Lay your left leg on top of it.
Hold the position for between 10 and 15 seconds, before returning to the starting position and repeating on the other side.
Wind pose
“Start by lying on your back, legs and arms extended as far as you can reach,” said Madden, in her book ‘Beat Your Bloat’.
“Exhale and bring both of your knees into your chest.
“Wrap your arms around them and clasp your hands together.
“Rock backwards and forwards with your hands clasped around your knees.”
Bridge pose
Lie on your back with your knees bent, and feet flat on the floor. Be sure to keep your feet hip-width apart, said Madden.
Now, press your arms and feet firmly into the floor, and push upwards with your hips. Your tailbone should come off the floor.
Clench your bum while keeping your thighs and feet parallel.
Still keeping your hands on the floor, press your shoulders into the ground.
Simply lift your chin away from your chest, and then bring your chest toward your chin. This way you’ll get a full stretch through your back.