Daily yoga routine of 15–20 poses can relieve gas and joint discomfort

New Delhi (The Uttam Hindu): Today, spending too much time on mobile and laptop, wrong eating habits and hectic routine have tired our body from within. During this time, people often ignore problems like stomach problems, gas, constipation, restlessness, nervousness, joint pain or insomnia, whereas these are signs that the body's balance is getting disturbed. According to Ayurveda, disease is born only when the flow of energy within the body stops. A simple way to balance this energy is through hand mudras. Through the fingers, we connect directly with the brain and nervous system.

A specific finger posture has a profound effect on the body. According to Ayurveda, our body is made up of the five elements: space, air, fire, water, and earth. When any of these elements is imbalanced, it directly impacts health. Of these, the air element is considered the most unstable. If this air becomes disturbed in the body, problems like gas, indigestion, constipation, restlessness, joint pain, increased heart rate, and nervousness begin to appear.

To calm and balance this air element, yoga prescribes a special posture called Vayu Mudra. This posture appears simple, but its effects reach deep within the body. Ayurveda believes that the thumb represents the fire element and the index finger represents the air element. When we bend the index finger and press it under the thumb, the fire element controls the air element.

The method of performing Vayu Mudra is very simple. Sit in a quiet place. Keep your spine straight and your eyes closed. Now, bend your index finger and press it against the base of your thumb, keeping the other three fingers straight. Breathe normally. As you sit in this posture, your body gradually relaxes. Practicing it for at least 15 to 20 minutes daily yields excellent results.

Practiced in the morning on an empty stomach with a calm mind is considered most effective, but if needed, it can also be done while sitting in a chair or walking. The effects of Vayu Mudra are primarily felt on the body's nervous system. This mudra works on the nerves, gradually reducing anxiety, nervousness, and stress. When the mind is calm, the body's organs also begin to function better. This has a direct effect on the digestive system.

Problems like gas, bloating, and indigestion occur because air gets trapped in the intestines. Vayu Mudra helps release this trapped energy, making the stomach feel lighter. This pose also improves blood circulation. When blood flow improves, nutrition reaches the joints and muscles. This is why this pose is considered helpful for joint pain, sciatica, and muscle stiffness.