Within the body of Yoga are many therapeutic practices to help the practitioner overcome illness and mental unwellness, through the practice of asana (exercises), pranayama (breathing) and meditation/relaxation.  This post will look at a simple but highly effective technique to relieve two common digestive issues.

It is estimated that about 12% (8 million) of the population in Great Britain have Irritable Bowel Syndrome and 20% (13.5 million) have acid reflux.  Both conditions can be debilitating and greatly interfere with our lifestyles.  Untreated both conditions can lead to more serious problems.

In Yoga it is believed that gastric problems are often the result of insufficient or excess Agni (the energy of the gastric fire) centred at the navel.  Surya Bhedhana is a highly effective technique to manage the symptoms of IBS and Reflux.

A Simple Pranayama Practice to Balance Agni – Surya Bhedhana

1. Take a comfortable seated posture – sitting on a chair is acceptable.  The most important thing is to keep the spine erect.  Close the eyes.  DO NOT PRACTICE THIS TECHNIQUE DRIVING, SWIMMING OR IN ANY VULNERABLE SITUATION.
2. Begin by observing the breath and try to slightly lengthen the exhalation.
3. This practice consists of breathing through the right nostril and out through the left nostril.
4. Take the index finger and place it at the eyebrow centre – you will be using the middle finger and thumb to open and close the nostrils
5. Close the left nostril and breathe in gently through the right nostril – then close the right nostril, release the left nostril and exhale.  Immediately close the left nostril and repeat the cycle of inhale via the right nostril and exhale via the left.  All breaths are normal length and intensity.
6. Continue to inhale through the right nostril and out through the left for 15 to 20 minutes.
7. Lie down and relax for 10 minutes
8. Surya Bhedhana can be practiced for up to 2 or 3 times per day.
9. A stronger version of this practice is to breathe in and out solely through the right nostril.

NB – People with uncontrolled high blood pressure or serious cardiac issues should seek the personal guidance of a professional teacher before proceeding.