Gut Stretching
Stretching can help both the physical & mental factors of dealing with a chronic gut condition.
The use of certain stretches can promote healthy digestion and reduce bloat, as well as provide some much-needed mental relaxation. Flexibility is often overlooked but it’s essential to reduce the risk of injury, decrease stress, and promote bowel movement regularity.
Before you start, make sure -
- Your muscles are warm by doing a light activity for 5 to 10 minutes or after taking a warm shower or bath
- Hold each stretch for 15 to 30 seconds, relax and repeat each stretch 2-4 more times
- Take slow and controlled breaths & keep all movements comfortable
Top 3 Stretches for Gut Health:
1. Child's Pose
- To get started, kneel on the floor with your toes together and your knees hip-width apart
- Lower your torso between your knees and extend your arms alongside your torso with your palms facing down
- Relax your shoulders toward the ground
2. Cobra Pose
- Place your palms flat on the ground directly under your shoulders
- Bend your elbows straight back and hug them into your sides
- Inhale to lift your chest off the floor
- Roll your shoulders back and keep your low ribs on the floor
- Make sure your elbows continue hugging your sides
- Keep your neck neutral
3. Lying Full Body Stretch
- Lay on your back
- Stretch your arms overhead
- Point your toes upward
- Lengthen your body