Thanksgiving meals are amazing, but let’s be honest—overeating can leave us feeling less than great.
Luckily, yoga poses for digestion can help ease that post-feast discomfort. These simple movements not only soothe your stomach but also boost energy, so you can get back to enjoying the holiday spirit.
Here’s a fun, effective yoga flow to kickstart your digestion:
1. Cat-Cow Pose (Marjaryasana-Bitilasana)
This classic pose gently massages the abdominal organs and promotes movement in the digestive tract.
- How to do it: Begin on your hands and knees. Inhale as you arch your back (Cow Pose) and exhale as you round your spine (Cat Pose).
- Why it works: The rhythmic motion stimulates circulation and helps ease bloating.
2. Seated Forward Bend (Paschimottanasana)
A calming pose that compresses the digestive organs to aid elimination.
- How to do it: Sit with your legs extended, reach forward, and fold over your thighs. Hold for 5–10 breaths.
- Pro tip: Flex your feet to deepen the stretch and further engage your core.
3. Reclined Twist (Supta Matsyendrasana)
This restorative twist detoxifies and creates space for digestion.
- How to do it: Lie on your back, bring one knee to your chest, and twist it across your body. Repeat on both sides.
- Why it works: Twists help move things along in the digestive system by “wringing out” internal organs.
4. Wind-Relieving Pose (Pavanamuktasana)
As the name suggests, this pose is great for releasing gas and alleviating bloating!
- How to do it: Hug your knees to your chest, one at a time or both together, while lying on your back. Hold for 5–10 breaths.
5. Legs-Up-the-Wall Pose (Viparita Karani)
Perfect for when you’re ready to relax, this pose reduces pressure on your digestive system while calming the mind.
- How to do it: Sit sideways against a wall, swing your legs up, and lie back. Rest here for 5–15 minutes.
- Bonus: This is great for promoting overall circulation.
Holiday Digestive Tips:
- Pair your yoga practice with a warm cup of ginger tea to further aid digestion.
- Stay hydrated to help your body process that big meal.
- Take deep breaths during your flow to calm the nervous system and support your gut.
So, the next time you find yourself in a post-feast food coma, roll out your mat, and try these yoga poses for digestion. Your stomach will thank you!
BTW: “You are not a drop in the ocean. You are the entire ocean, in a drop.” – Rumi
Ready to ease that post-feast bloat? Roll out your mat, try these poses, and let us know how you feel!
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