Gallbladder surgery, often necessitated by gallstones or other issues, can have a significant impact on digestion and overall wellness. While recovery involves various aspects, integrating Yoga into the healing process can be a powerful way to promote digestive health, enhance recovery, and alleviate discomfort. 
In this 2-minute read, let us explore five restorative yogasanas specifically beneficial for individuals recovering from gallbladder surgery.
Also Read: Facing Trouble With A Bloated Tummy? 5 Proven Yogasanas To Provide Relief From Gassy Gut
The Challenges Of Digestive Health After Gallbladder Removal
For those who haven't had their gallbladder out, it's a common surgery that is often necessary when gallstones cause pain and other issues. The gallbladder is a small organ that stores and concentrates bile, which is produced by the liver to help digest fat. When it's removed, bile flows directly from the liver into the small intestine instead of being stored and concentrated in the gallbladder first.
This can lead to a variety of digestive issues, especially when it comes to digesting fatty foods. Many people after surgery experience frequent diarrhoea, bloating, gas, and abdominal discomfort, especially after eating anything with fat.
How Does Yoga Help After Gallbladder Surgery?
Yoga can significantly aid recovery after gallbladder surgery by promoting digestive health, reducing stress, and enhancing mobility. Gentle movements stimulate digestion, alleviating common issues like bloating and gas. Mindful breathing and relaxation techniques help lower anxiety, fostering emotional well-being. Restorative poses improve circulation and support pain relief while increasing body awareness encouraging individuals to listen to their bodies during recovery. Overall, yoga offers a holistic approach that not only aids physical healing but also nurtures mental resilience, making it an effective practice for those navigating the post-surgery recovery process.
If you have received a green signal from your treating doctor to practice yoga, here are some of the most helpful poses that can help boost the recovery process.
5 Best Restorative Yoga Postures For Digestive Health
Cat-Cow Pose (Marjaryasana-Bitilasana):
Place yourself on your hands and knees like you're on a table. Taking a deep breath, raise your head and tailbone toward the ceiling while arching your back (Cow Pose). Take a breath out, arch your back, and bring your chin up to your chest (Cat Pose). For one to two minutes, repeat this flow.
Benefits:
This dynamic pose was incredibly beneficial in soothing my digestive system. The gentle rocking motion helps massage the abdominal organs, alleviating bloating and easing digestive disturbances.
Child’s Pose (Balasana):
Begin by spreading your knees apart and touching your big toes while kneeling on the ground. Lower your body between your thighs as you extend your arms forward while sitting back on your heels. For a few minutes, place your forehead on the mat and take deep breaths.
Benefits:
As a restorative pose, Child’s Pose provides a deep stretch to the back and abdomen. It promotes relaxation and allows the body to release built-up tension, helping one unwind and improve their overall digestive comfort.
Seated Forward Bend (Paschimottanasana):
Seat yourself at the edge of the chair, and position your feet hip-width apart. Take a breath and stretch your back. Let out a breath and bend forward, extending your hands towards your ankles or the floor. After holding for five to ten breaths, carefully stand back up.
Benefits:
This forward bend helps stretch the hamstrings while applying gentle pressure to the abdominal organs. It is also beneficial for stimulating digestion and reducing post-surgery bloating.
Wind-Relieving Pose (Pavanamuktasana):
Lie down straight on the ground with your backbone firmly placed on the ground. Fold your legs, bring them to your chest and embrace them with both arms. Raise your head gradually off the floor and bring your nose in between your knees. Be in this stance for a few seconds while you inhale and exhale deeply, and then return to the initial lying position.
Benefits:
True to its name, this pose is incredibly effective in relieving gas and bloating and combatting other digestive troubles.
Legs-Up-the-Wall Pose (Viparita Karani):
Stretch your legs out against a wall while lying on your back. As near the wall as seems comfortable, scoot your hips. Breathe deeply and let your arms drop to your sides. Hold for ten to fifteen minutes.
Benefits:
This pose helps with blood circulation and lymphatic drainage, contributing to a more balanced digestive system. It offers a calming practice that supports overall recovery.
Beyond Physical Benefits
Yoga also offers emotional support during the healing journey. The mindful breathing and relaxation techniques help manage stress and anxiety, which, in turn, positively impacts digestive health, making one more empowered to take charge of their well-being.
Tips for Integrating Yoga Post-Surgery
Start Slowly: Begin with gentle, restorative poses and listen to your body. Avoid any movements that cause discomfort or strain.
Focus on Breathing: Incorporate deep, mindful breathing to enhance relaxation and digestion.
Consult Your Doctor: Always seek medical advice before starting any new exercise regimen, especially after surgery.
Conclusion
Yoga offers a holistic approach to recovery after gallbladder surgery, helping to alleviate discomfort and promote digestive health. The restorative yogasanas outlined above can provide significant benefits, both physically and emotionally. By integrating these practices into their recovery journey, individuals can enhance their healing process and foster a sense of overall well-being.
If you’re navigating recovery from gallbladder surgery, consider exploring yoga as a supportive practice. With patience and mindfulness, you may discover a renewed sense of vitality and balance in your life.
(This article is reviewed by Kalyani Krishna Chief Content Editor)
Author Profile
Soumita Basu:
Soumita Basu holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Pharmacy and is keenly interested in Ayurveda, home remedies, yoga, fitness, diagnostics, and beauty. With nearly 6 years of experience, she produces evidence-based health content, including articles, videos, and infographics, to provide valuable insights to her audience.
References:
- Role of yoga therapy in improving digestive health and quality of sleep in an elderly population: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: H R Shree Ganesh 1, Pailoor Subramanya 2, Raghavendra Rao M 3, Vivek Udupa 4
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34391308/
- A randomized trial of yoga for adolescents with irritable bowel syndrome
Authors: Leora Kuttner, PhD,1 Christine T Chambers, PhD,1,2 Janine Hardial, BSc,2 David M Israel, MD,1,3 Kevan Jacobson, MBBCh,1,3 and Kathy Evans, BSN3
