Yoga poses for digestion Virginia

Upward Abdominal Lock (Uddiyana Bandha)

Photo by Chris Hornbecker, via YogaJournal.com

Bharadvaja’s Twist (Bharadvajasana I)

This simple, seated pose can help with a number of health problems, including digestion and menstrual pain. It’s also easily modified for those who may have limited joint mobility; simply sit sideways in a chair, rather than on the floor.

Photo by Fotolia/fizkes.

Head-to-Knee Forward Bend (Janu Sirsasana)

Head-to-Knee Forward Bend stretches the legs and spine, but can also stimulate the liver which aids digestion by increasing the body’s ability to digest fats and absorb essential nutrients.

Photo by Fotolia/dadima.

Fish Pose (Matsyasana)

For beginning yoga practitioners, Fish Pose can be modified by supporting the back with a rolled towel or blanket, bending the knees with feet flat on the floor, or keeping legs straight pressed against the floor. Like Bharadvaja’s Twist, this pose can relieve pain associated with menstruation, fatigue and constipation.

Photo by Rory Earnshaw, via YogaJournal.com

Reclining Hand-to-Big-Toe Pose (Supta Padangusthasana)

Digestive health and gut bacteria have been popular topics of scientific studies in recent years, and have been linked to everything from mental health to weight control. Learn more and discover more ways to improve your inner ecosystem in The Vital Importance of Healthy Gut Bacteria.