Something many of us deal with but rarely bring up over coffee—digestive troubles. Whether it's that familiar post-meal bloat, sluggish digestion, or feeling "off" in your belly, you're not alone. As a yoga teacher (and someone who has had my fair share of tummy woes), I know firsthand how powerful gentle movement and breath can be in helping to ease these uncomfortable feelings.
So today, I’m sharing some of my favourite yoga poses that support digestion, reduce bloating, and help you feel more at ease in your body. These are poses I return to time and again—not just because they work, but because they give me a moment to pause, breathe, and reconnect with myself.
Here’s a little love for your belly, from me to you.
(Yes, the name says it all!)
Lie on your back and gently hug one knee into your chest, drawing it in towards your belly. Hold here for a few deep breaths, then switch sides. If it feels good, you can hug both knees in at once—like giving yourself a big squeeze. If available to you, you can also gently move your knees in a circle, giving a little massage to your lower back and belly.
✨ Why I love it: This pose is a gentle way to massage your digestive organs and, well, help move things along! Perfect for those days when you're feeling a little "stuck."
From lying on your back, bend your knees and drop them over to one side. Let your arms stretch out wide like a "T" and turn your head gently in the opposite direction.
✨ Why I love it: This soothing twist feels like a wringing out for your insides (imagine a sponge)—releasing tension, massaging your gut, and encouraging digestion to do its thing. Plus, it's a beautiful way to unwind at the end of a long day.
Come to hands and knees with your wrists under your shoulders and knees under your hips. As you inhale, let your belly drop and lift your head and tailbone—opening up your chest (Cow Pose). As you exhale, round your spine, tuck your chin, and draw your belly in (Cat Pose). Keep moving with your breath, flowing smoothly from one to the other.
✨ Why I love it: This gentle flow creates a natural massage for your digestive organs and helps release tension in your back and belly. It's my go-to when I feel tight, bloated, or just need to reset.
Sit with your legs stretched out in front. As you exhale, gently fold forward from your hips, reaching toward your feet. You can bend your knees as much as you need—this isn’t about flexibility, it’s about creating space.
✨ Why I love it: Forward folds are calming for the nervous system and massage the belly area, encouraging digestion to settle and flow. I often end my practice with this pose when I need a little extra TLC. Forward folding poses are also signals to the body to calm and rest.
💛 Listen to your body. If anything feels uncomfortable or forced, ease out of the pose. Yoga is about supporting you, not straining you.
💛 Practice on an empty stomach. Ideally, give yourself a couple of hours after eating to do these poses for maximum digestive support.
💛 Breathe. Slow, mindful breaths are just as important as the poses themselves. Your breath is what helps tell your body it's safe to relax and digest.
So, next time you're feeling a little heavy or bloated, roll out your mat (or even just find a space on the carpet) and give these gentle movements a try. Think of it as a little love letter to your belly—and a reminder that taking care of yourself doesn't have to be complicated.
With love and light,
Lisa x
