Once you have developed an inguinal hernia, there is no way other than surgery to repair the weakened muscles. Therefore, what’s the significance and role of yoga post a hernia surgery? Simple yoga postures can prevent a recurrence of the inguinal hernia by strengthening the abdominal muscles and maintaining body weight. However, it is recommended to practice these yoga asanas after proper consultation with the doctor, especially during the recovery period.
List of 7 Yoga asanas that can speed up the process of healing after an inguinal surgery:
- Virasana
- Supta virasana
- Viparita Karani
- Virabhadrasana
- Marjaryasana
- Bhujangasana
- Ardha Matsyendrasana
Let’s discuss in details about these Yoga Asanas
Table of Contents
Virasana or Hero Pose for Hernia
This yoga pose is a meditative one which you should ideally practice in the morning. Moreover, this asana helps to improve the digestive process as well as relieves gas. Apart from strengthening the digestive process, this posture strengthens the thighs, knees, and ankles. If you have problems with the heart or suffering from an injury, avoid this pose or practice this under supervision.
Supta Virasana or Reclining Hero Pose for Hernia
This asana should be practiced by those who have mastered the Hero Pose. In addition to providing a good stretch to the thighs, knees, ankles, abdomen and deep hip flexors, it boosts up the digestive process.
The following conditions can be cured using this asana-
–Digestive disorders
-Diarrhea
–Intestinal gas
-Acidity
-Menstrual irritation
–Varicose veins
-Asthma
-Headache
-Elevated blood pressure
-Infertility
-Insomnia
-Respiratory problems
-Insomnia
-Sciatica
Viparita Karani or Legs Up on the Wall
Often recommended for stress-busting purposes, this posture is practiced so that the blood can regulate the upper body and head. The therapeutic benefits of Viparita Karini can help the following conditions-
-Anxiety
-Digestive problems
-Migraines
–Mild depression
-Urinary disorders
-Premenopausal and menopausal syndrome
Virabhadrasana or Warrior I Pose
Be sure that you have an empty stomach before doing this asana. It ensures faster recovery after hernia surgery as it increases the stamina. Not only it eases out frozen shoulders but it also stimulates metabolism. Additionally, this asana strengthens the lower back, the arms and the legs. Apart from all these benefits, this asana is highly recommended for relaxing the mind and the body.
Marjaryasana or Cat Pose
This pose offers several benefits to the body, especially after the hernia repair. The Cat Pose for hernia massages and activates the digestive organs. In addition to this, it improves the circulation of both blood and oxygen throughout the body. Furthermore, the Cat Pose stretches, strengthens and makes the spine flexible. Also, people looking to lose weight can do this asana as the Cat Pose tones the abdomen by getting rid of extra fat around the belly.
Bhujangasana or Cobra Pose
In this posture, the person has to elevate the upper half of the body like a snake. Hence, this offers several benefits to the body. People recovering from an inguinal or hiatal hernia surgery should practice the Bhujangasana. Not only it stimulates the digestive process, but it also enhances reproductive and urinary systems. In addition to the enhancement of the lower half of the body, the Cobra Pose also stretches the lungs, shoulders, chest, and abdomen.
Ardha Matsyendrasana or Half Lord of the Fishes Pose
This is one of the best yoga asanas for people recovering from hernia surgery. When you twist while doing this asana, the abdominal organs are massaged that increases the secretion of digestive juices and enhances the process of the digestive system. Also, this asana circulates blood throughout the body including the pelvic area so it strengthens the reproductive as well as the urinary system.
Disclaimer – Tips mentioned in the blog are for information purposes only and should not be considered as professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor, trainer or a dietician before starting any fitness program or making any changes to your diet.
Can yoga heal hernias?
Curing hernia naturally including dietary changes and lifestyle modifications can reduce the discomfort associated with hernia. However, these can only provide temporary relief. Some of the tips include-
- Consuming a fiber-rich diet to avoid constipation
- Losing weight to reduce pressure in the abdomen area
- Not straining excessively during a bowel movement
- Restricting lifting heavy weights or objects that can strain the muscles
Furthermore, it is important to prevent the hernia from getting worse as it can lead to complications. Additionally, yoga can help recover fast after inguinal hernia surgery by improving blood circulation to the wound. Most importantly, it is important to recover fast after surgery. Otherwise, another hernia can develop near the incision which again may require the patient. to undergo surgery.
Few more words from Pristyn Care
Laparoscopic hernia repair is the most effective treatment for an inguinal hernia. In addition to the above yoga postures, another asana you can practice before the surgery is abdominal breathing. Moreover, make sure that you prepare yourself to breathe from the belly as this can help you recover after the inguinal surgery. But remember, doing these asanas without supervision is a big no-no. There are other lifestyle tips that you can follow to recover faster after inguinal hernia surgery.