Yoga For Liver Health: Grand Master Akshar Shares Daily Poses To Try

The liver is one of the most active organs in the body. It aids digestion, stores energy, nourishes the body, and plays a vital role in several metabolic processes. As one of the body's key organs, it is essential for maintaining overall health. Along with a balanced diet and an active lifestyle, yoga and mindful living encourage healthy habits that support the body's natural functions.

yoga-for-liver-health
Photo Credit: PR Handout & Chat GPT

We spoke to Himalayan Siddhaa Akshar (Grand Master Akshar), a Yoga and spiritual leader and Founder of Akshar Yoga Kendraa, who shared daily yogic habits to promote liver health.

"In yogic science, wellness is achieved by balancing the breath, mind, and body. Slow movements, mindful breathing, and mental relaxation enhance circulation, promote relaxation, and support healthy digestion. Regular yoga practice helps keep the body physically balanced and fosters a peaceful state of mind," said Akshar.

Building Liver Wellness Through Daily Yogic Habits

1. Dhanurasana (Bow Pose)

Dhanurasana
Photo Credit: Canva

Formation

Lying on your stomach with your legs spread apart slightly. Hug both knees and place hands on ankles. Breathe in and slowly raise the chest and legs off of the floor making a bow shape. Pause for a couple of breaths, then gently return to the starting position.

Benefits

"Dhanurasana stretches the front half of the body and stimulates the abdomen. It tones the back muscles, enhances flexibility, and benefits digestion and blood circulation in the body," added Akshar.

Do's and Don'ts

Slowly, lift the body up and keep breathing normally. The movements should be gentle and not forced.

2. Utthitta Padangusthasana (Extended Hand to Foot Pose)

Utthitta Padangusthasana
Photo Credit: Canva

Formation

Have legs straight and down. Take in a deep breath and stretch the backbone. Exhale while gently bending forward from the hips and reaching towards the feet. Hold the posture comfortably with relaxed breathing.

Benefits

This stretch lengthens the spine, hips and hamstrings and slightly squeezes the belly. It makes it easy to bend, relaxes, aids in digestion and calms the mind.

Do's and Don'ts

Bend forward with your spine lengthened. Walk within your comfort zone and do not strain.

3. Udarakarshanasana (Abdominal Stretch Pose)

Formation

Sit in the squat position; feet will be positioned comfortably apart. Place both hands on the knees. Gently twist the torso to one side while pressing the opposite knee towards the floor. Repeat on each side using slow breathing.

Benefits

Udarakarshanasana gently stimulates the abdominal organs, facilitates good digestion, enhances flexibility around the waist and promotes proper circulation in the abdomen.

Do's and Don'ts

Do the twist slowly and keep your back straight. Take normal breaths during the action.

4. Agni Mudra

Agni Mudra
Photo Credit: Canva

Formation

Sit with a straight back, comfortably. Fold the ring finger towards the base of the thumb and gently press it with the thumb. Leave the other fingers outstretched. Place hands on knees and breathe as normal for a few minutes.

Benefits

Agni Mudra is considered to be the mudra that helps maintain digestive balance and healthy metabolism. It helps people become more aware of their body, more focused, and supports a mindful life.

Do's and Don'ts

Keep fingers relaxed and hands soft. Practice in a relaxed way with even breaths.

Visiting a clinic can be intimidating

"Mindful living is about being conscious of the habits that we have, such as eating, sleeping, working, relaxing, etc. Having regular meal schedules, fluid intake, quality sleep, positive thinking, and daily exercise leads to a healthy lifestyle. These practices, along with yoga, help promote balance between the body and the mind," advised Akshar.

Bottomline

Akshar concluded, "Regular practices that take care of the body promote good liver health. Yoga and conscious living are a perfect match and go hand in hand with flexibility, healthy digestion, circulation and inner balance. Dhanurasana, Paschimottanasana, Udarakarshanasana and Agni Mudra are some of the practices that can be incorporated into one's daily routine to stay alive and healthy when it comes to liver care."

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.