Yoga vs Gym Workout: Which is Better for Gastric Health?
Yoga and gym workouts are both popular forms of physical activity that offer numerous health benefits. When asked to a senior obstetrician and gynecologist of Odisha about choosing between yoga and gym workout for gastric health, he emphasized the benefits of yoga. He mentioned that while gym workouts mainly focus on muscle building, yoga benefits the inner body organs, including the digestive system.
Yoga is an ancient practice that dates back thousands of years. It is rooted in the concept of unity between mind, body, and nature. Yoga has been proven to be effective in treating a wide range of health issues, including mental health, weight loss, bone disorders, and brain functionality. Additionally, yoga has been found to be beneficial for gastric-related health problems.
Ayurveda, the sister science of yoga, believes that imbalances in the three doshas (Vatta, Pitta, and Kapha) can lead to various health issues. Gastric problems, in particular, are often caused by an imbalance in the Vatta dosha, which regulates the digestive organs. Yoga helps in calming the Vatta dosha and alleviating gastric issues by focusing on correcting the three doshas.
There are specific yoga asanas that are particularly beneficial for improving digestive health and alleviating gastric problems. Here are some of the key yoga poses that can help with gastric health:
1. Pawanmuktasana (Wind Release Pose): This pose helps in releasing gas from the stomach and improving digestion. It also works on the muscles of the back, biceps, triceps, and hips.
2. Balasana (Child’s Pose): Balasana helps in relieving fatigue, anxiety, and stress. It also improves digestion and cures back pain.
3. Paschimottanasana (Seated Forward Bend Pose): This asana stretches the body forward, putting pressure on the digestive organs and improving digestion. It also relaxes the body, reduces stress, and benefits patients with diabetes and liver problems.
4. Supta Matsyendrasana (Reclining Spinal Twist): This pose improves the flexibility of the spine, reduces backache, and improves digestion. It also exercises the internal organs and helps in relieving insomnia.
5. Ananda Balasana (Happy Baby Pose): Ananda Balasana stretches the muscles of the hips, thighs, biceps, and triceps. It improves heart rate, gives a proper shape to the spine, and benefits patients with lower back pain.
6. Halasana (Plough Pose): Halasana improves flexibility, strengthens the muscles of the back, hamstrings, and neck. It also benefits internal organs like the thyroid, pancreas, and pituitary gland, improves digestion, and cures constipation.
In conclusion, yoga can be a powerful tool for improving digestive health and alleviating gastric problems. By practicing specific yoga poses that target the digestive system, individuals can experience relief from gastric issues and promote overall well-being. It is important to consult a healthcare professional before starting any new exercise routine, especially if you have pre-existing health conditions. Yoga, when practiced mindfully and regularly, can be a valuable addition to your health and wellness routine.
