Yoga Treatment for Colitis

Colitis is a serious inflammatory condition of the bowels. Antibiotics and intestinal disinfectants only manage part of the problem and the other treatment, cortico-steroids cause grave side effects. With colectomy as the only other solution, yoga offers a welcomed natural and comprehensive solution for colitis.

Causes

• Mental stress and emotional strain have been shown to insight and aggravate colitis symptoms. A Yoga Magazine survey showed that environmental and social stressors contributed to the onset of colitis.

Function

• Ancient yogic texts give specific posture and breathing techniques to cleanse the intestines of disease and excess foods. These methods motivate and normalize intestinal energies and fluids.

Treatment

• Breath of fire is a rapid breath similar to the panting of a dog, except breathing is through the nose. This breath creates heat as you pump your lower abdomen with each exhalation.

Potential

• When practiced daily for only 15 to 20 minutes, yoga has been shown to completely relieve symptoms with no recurrence for up to eight years later.

Expert Insight

• The Mayo Clinic advises mild stretching and breathing exercises that relieve stress and loosen up your abdominal area. They recommend yoga and meditation in classes or at home from DVDs or books.