Yoga Poses for Stomach Ulcers: Care and Prevention
Although often perceived as simply an exercise regimen to increase flexibility, yoga poses for stomach ulcers and other gastrointestinal disorders has proven to yield a high rate of success. Practitioners who carry their understanding of yoga beyond the obvious physical benefits understand that the discipline has a number of more subtle, "hidden" effects on the overall system including:
- massage of the internal organs
- improved glandular function
- decreased acid production
- mental control and calm
As with any program of exercise, it is advisable to consult with your physician before beginning. Next you will want to find a qualified instructor who will help you to develop a yoga routine designed to deliver maximum gastrointestinal benefit. Since you will want a program of stretches and poses that specifically stimulate key organs and nerves, the assistance of a trained master is essential. It is good, however, to understand the basic goals you are trying to achieve in a program of yoga for ulcers as you go into your meeting with your new coach.
First understand that your yoga regimen should emphasize back bends that stimulate the circulation of blood in the gastric area and in the process promote healing of the ulcer. These positions will also improve the stomach's ability to process and to absorb food while enhancing the secretion of mucous by the glands to coat and protect the sensitive lining of the stomach. (Be honest with your yoga instructor about any issues you have with your back, since you do not want to aggravate one problem will addressing another.)
To reduce acid flow to the stomach, the stretches chosen must stimulate the vagus nerve, but be cautious about forward bends which are to be avoided as they have exactly the opposite effect. People with sufficient flexibility will also benefit from inversions that further aid in food absorption with the added benefit of removing excess gas from the system. These are, however, advanced moves and not appropriate for the beginner.
While back bends address specific factors contributing to the healing of the existing ulcer and the prevention of future flare ups, the overall yoga routine should be one that allows the individual to cultivate a quieter mind. Carrying a better sense of mental and emotional control into daily life will allow the person to release habits and reactions that caused the ulcer to erupt in the first place. Mental and emotional goals of a program of yoga for ulcers include:
- cultivating emotional detachment under stress
- releasing the quest for perfectionism
- establishing peaceful and regular sleep patterns