2 min read

Updated On Apr 2024
Updated On Apr 2024

What Are The Benefits Of Yoga For Liver Disease?

Table of content

Yoga For Liver Disease

Written By

×
Author Profile
Rebekah Pais

In the dynamic domain of health and fitness, I stand out with a sharp eye for trending market trends.

View Profile

Reviewed By

×
Pavithra B J

Pavithra, a Certified Yoga Therapist.

View Profile

Table of content

The historic benefits of yoga for liver disease trace back thousands of years, with ancient texts and teachings emphasizing its profound impact on overall health. 

In traditional systems like Ayurveda, yoga was regarded as a powerful therapy to support liver function as well as help liver-related ailments. 

Through gentle stretches, twists, as well as breathing exercises, yoga enhances blood circulation, stimulates the liver, and aids in detoxification. Historical records suggest that yogic practices were considered therapeutic for various liver conditions, promoting harmony between the mind, body, as well as liver. 

Today, this ancient wisdom continues to inspire modern approaches, reinforcing yoga’s significance as a complementary practice in managing liver disease as well as fostering well-being.

Let’s understand more about how does yoga help in liver disease.

CTA ImageCTA Image

Let’s Understand About Liver Disease

Liver diseases refer to a range of conditions that affect the liver’s structure as well as function, hindering its ability to perform essential tasks. 

The liver is a vital organ responsible for numerous crucial functions in the body, including metabolism, detoxification, production of bile, as well as storage of nutrients. It can be treated by a good diet for liver.

Liver diseases can range from mild and reversible conditions to severe, chronic, as well as life-threatening illnesses. 

Some common liver diseases include:

1. Hepatitis

Inflammation of the liver is often caused by viral infections (hepatitis A, B, C, etc.), alcohol consumption, or autoimmune disorders. The condition can vary in severity, ranging from mild as well as self-limiting to chronic and potentially life-threatening. Symptoms may include jaundice, fatigue, abdominal pain, as well as nausea

2. Cirrhosis

Progressive and irreversible scarring of the liver tissue usually results from chronic liver diseases, such as long-term alcohol abuse or hepatitis.

3. Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease 

A condition also termed NAFLD that causes fat accumulation in the liver. It isn’t caused by alcohol but is associated with obesity, metabolic syndrome, etc. To know how to reduce fatty liver, it is important to consult the right doctor and get the right lifestyle change.

4. Alcoholic Liver Disease

Liver damage is caused by excessive and prolonged alcohol consumption, leading to inflammation, fatty liver, as well as cirrhosis. It encompasses a spectrum of liver-related disorders, including fatty liver, alcoholic hepatitis, fibrosis, as well as cirrhosis.

5. Liver Cancer

Primary liver cancer (hepatocellular carcinoma) or secondary liver cancer (metastatic cancer that spreads to the liver from other organs). It is one of the most common types of cancer worldwide and is often associated with chronic liver diseases such as cirrhosis, hepatitis B, and hepatitis C infections. E

6. Autoimmune Hepatitis

A condition where the immune system attacks the liver, leading to inflammation and liver damage. Medical management, including immunosuppressive medications, is crucial to control the immune response as well as preserve liver function in individuals with Autoimmune Hepatitis.

7. Hemochromatosis

An inherited disorder that results in excess iron accumulation in the liver and other organs, leading to damage as well as dysfunction.

8. Wilson’s Disease

An inherited disorder that causes copper buildup in the liver and other organs, leading to liver damage as well as neurological problems.

Important Notes

  • Liver diseases can have various symptoms, including jaundice (yellowing of the skin as well as eyes), fatigue, abdominal pain, swelling, and changes in bowel movements. 
  • Treatment and management of liver diseases depend on the specific condition and its severity as well as may include adopting healthy lifestyle changes, medications, or, in severe cases, liver transplantation. 
  • Early diagnosis and timely medical intervention are essential in managing liver diseases and preventing further complications. Regular health check-ups and adopting a healthy lifestyle can help in maintaining liver health and overall well-being.

Are Your Over-Hydrating Yourself?

Everyone saying the more you drink the better is not right! Let’s break a few myths.

  • Myth 1 – 70-75% of the Body is Water.
  • Reality – An infant’s body is 70-75% water. An adult male’s body is about 60% water and an adult female’s body is about 50-55% water. The percentage reduces with age as well as disease impacts it too.

Wish to know more? Check out the below vlog.

Benefits Of Yoga For Liver Disease 

Yoga offers valuable support for individuals with liver disease, promoting overall liver health through improved blood circulation, gentle detoxification, and post traumatic stress disorder

Specific yoga poses as well as breathing exercises stimulate the liver, aiding in toxin elimination and enhancing its function. 

Additionally, the mind-body connection fostered by yoga can help individuals make positive lifestyle choices, contributing to better liver health and overall well-being.

Some of the key benefits of yoga for liver disease include:

1. Improved Blood Circulation

Yoga poses and breathing techniques enhance blood circulation, ensuring better oxygen and nutrient supply to the liver, supporting its optimal function as well as detoxification processes.

2. Stress Reduction

Yoga incorporates relaxation and meditation techniques that reduce stress and promote a sense of calm. Lowering stress levels can help improve liver health, as stress hormones can negatively impact liver function.

3. Enhanced Detoxification

Certain yoga poses involve gentle twists and stretches that aid in massaging and stimulating the liver, facilitating the elimination of toxins as well as waste products from the body.

4. Improved Digestion

Many yoga poses for better digestion focus on abdominal stretches and twists, promoting healthy digestion as well as better absorption of nutrients, which can indirectly benefit the liver.

5. Weight Management

Yoga can help individuals maintain a healthy weight, which is essential for managing liver diseases like non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) or non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH).

6. Reduced Inflammation

Some studies suggest that yoga may have anti-inflammatory effects, which can be beneficial for individuals with liver inflammation or autoimmune liver diseases.

7. Liver Function Support

Yoga’s holistic approach to health promotes overall organ function, which can indirectly support the liver in performing its essential tasks efficiently.

8. Increased Energy Levels

Regular yoga poses for liver disease can boost energy levels and combat fatigue, helping individuals cope with the symptoms of liver diseases that may cause tiredness as well as lethargy.

9. Immune System Support

Regular yoga for autoimmune disorders is known to boost the immune system, helping the body fight infections and supporting the liver in combating hepatitis viruses or other pathogens.

Parth Fat Loss Transformation | Lost 8Kgs In Just 30 Days!

Many people think that diets alone can’t help you lose weight fast but here we have many such examples and success stories that will break your myth. And, today we are going to discuss one of them. 

So, stay tuned! 

Which Is The Best Yoga For Liver Disease?

Types Of Yoga For Liver Disease

While there isn’t a single “best” yoga pose for liver disease, there are several yoga poses and practices that can be beneficial for liver health. 

These poses focus on improving blood circulation, stimulating the liver, and promoting relaxation as well as stress reduction, which are essential aspects of supporting liver function. 

Some of the recommended yoga therapy for liver diseases include:

1. Twisting Yoga For Liver Disease

Twisting poses like Ardha Matsyendrasana (Half Lord of the Fishes Pose) and Parivrtta Parsvakonasana (Revolved Side Angle Pose) gently massage the abdominal area, stimulating the liver as well as aiding in detoxification.

How To Do?

Ardha Matsyendrasana (Half Lord of the Fishes Pose) 

  • Sit on the floor with your legs extended straight in front of you.
  • Bend your right knee and place your right foot on the floor near your left thigh, with the right knee pointing upwards.
  • Place your left foot over your right knee, placing it flat on the floor.
  • Inhale, and as you exhale, twist your torso to the right, placing your left hand on the floor behind your back for support.
  • Reach your right arm up and over your right knee, placing your right palm on the floor or holding onto your right foot.
  • Gently twist your upper body, looking over your right shoulder.
  • Stay in that pose for 3 seconds to a minute with deep breathing. 
  • Slowly release the twist as well as repeat on the other side.

Revolved Side Angle Pose (Parivrtta Parsvakonasana):

  • Begin in a lunge position with your right foot forward and left foot back.
  • Bend your right knee to a 90-degree angle, ensuring that your knee is directly above your ankle.
  • Place your left hand on the floor inside your right foot, slightly to the right.
  • Inhale, and as you exhale, twist your torso to the right, extending your right arm up towards the ceiling.
  • Keep your left hand on the floor for support or place it on your right thigh.
  • Gently twist your upper body, looking up at your right hand.
  • Stay in that pose for 3 seconds to a minute with deep breathing. 
  • Release the twist and switch sides.

2. Forward Bend Yoga For Liver Disease

Forward bending poses like Paschimottanasana (Seated Forward Bend) and Uttanasana (Standing Forward Bend) promote gentle compression of the abdomen, which can aid in improving digestion as well as supporting liver function.

How To Do?

Seated Forward Bend (Paschimottanasana):

  • Keep your legs straight. 
  • Inhale, lengthen your spine, and as you exhale, hinge your hips to lean forward.
  • Reach your hands towards your feet or ankles, keeping your spine straight.
  • If you are unable to reach your feet, you can use a yoga strap or a towel around your feet to hold onto.
  • Avoid rounding your back; instead, focus on elongating your spine as you fold forward.
  • Stay in that pose for 3 seconds to a minute with deep breathing. 
  • Slowly release the forward bend and come back to an upright seated position.

Standing Forward Bend (Uttanasana):

  • Stand with your feet apart and arms wide by each side.
  • Inhale, lift your arms overhead, and as you exhale, hinge at your hips to fold forward.
  • Keep your knees slightly bent if needed to avoid straining your lower back.
  • Allow your upper body to relax and hang over your legs.
  • You can hold onto your ankles or place your hands on the floor beside your feet, depending on your flexibility.
  • Keep your neck relaxed and gaze towards your knees or shins.
  • Stay in that pose for 3 seconds to a minute with deep breathing. 
  • Inhale, engage your core, and slowly rise back up to a standing position.

3. Pranayama Yoga For Liver Disease

Deep breathing exercises like Nadi Shodhana (Alternate Nostril Breathing) and Kapalabhati (Skull-Shining Breath) can help reduce stress as well as enhance lung capacity, indirectly benefiting the liver’s detoxification process.

How To Do?

Nadi Shodhana (Alternate Nostril Breathing):

  • Sit in a cross-legged position comfortably with your spine straight.
  • Rest your left hand on your left knee, and bring your right hand to your face.
  • Close your right nostril with your right thumb and inhale through your left nostril. 
  • Close your left nostril with your right ring finger, release your right nostril, and exhale slowly and completely through the right nostril.
  • Inhale deeply through the right nostril, close it with your right thumb, and release the left nostril.
  • Slowly breathe out through your left nostril. 
  • This completes one round of Nadi Shodhana.
  • Continue for 5-10 rounds, focusing on smooth as well as controlled breaths.

Kapalabhati (Skull-Shining Breath):

  • Sit comfortably with your spine straight and place your hands on your knees.
  • Take a deep inhale, and as you exhale forcefully, contract your lower belly to push the breath out through your nose.
  • The inhalation will happen naturally as a reflexive action after each forceful exhale.
  • Continue this rapid, forceful exhale and passive inhale pattern for about 30-60 seconds.
  • Then take a few deep breaths to relax.

4. Savasana Yoga For Liver Disease

This final relaxation pose which is also included in hot yoga for weight loss allows the body and mind to unwind completely, promoting overall relaxation and stress reduction, which is vital for liver health.

How To Do?

  • Choose a quiet as well as peaceful place to practice Savasana. Lay down on your back on a yoga mat or a comfortable surface.
  • Extend your legs comfortably, allowing your feet to fall slightly apart. Rest your arms alongside your body, with your palms facing upwards. Close your eyes gently to encourage relaxation.
  • Inhale slowly through your nose and breathe out through your mouth. Feel your body gradually relax with each breath.
  • Start mentally scanning your body from your toes to the top of your head. Notice any areas of tension or discomfort, and consciously release the tension as you exhale.
  • As you continue to breathe deeply, consciously let go of any tension in your muscles, including your shoulders, neck, and jaw.
  • Allow your mind to quiet down. If thoughts arise, gently acknowledge them and let them pass without engaging with them.
  • Remain in Savasana for at least 5-10 minutes or longer if you feel comfortable. During this time, focus on deep and relaxed breathing.
  • To come out of Savasana, start by wiggling your fingers and toes. Slowly stretch your arms overhead and take a full-body stretch.
  • Roll over to your right side, resting your head on your arm, in a fetal position.
  • When you’re ready, use your right hand to push yourself up to a seated position.

Wrapping It Up For Yoga For Liver Disease

As you practice these yoga asanas, focus on breathing deeply and relaxing into the stretch. Yoga poses like forward bends should be performed with caution if you have any existing back or hamstring injuries

It’s important to note that while yoga can be beneficial as a complementary therapy for liver disease, it should not replace medical treatment or advice. 

Individuals with liver diseases should consult their healthcare providers before starting any new exercise regimen, including yoga, to ensure it is safe and appropriate for their specific condition. 

With proper guidance and a well-rounded approach to health, incorporating yoga into the management of liver disease can provide numerous advantages for both physical and mental well-being.

Fun Fact

Bhaiya! Ek Paneer Tikka Sub please. Ruko zara! Do you think Subway is healthy? But, did you know? subway has in total 410 calories, and 654 sodium content. Don’t go with brands, however with ghar ka dal chawal, which is rich in absorbing nutrients, helps with digestion, etc.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which Is The Best Yoga For Liver Disease?

While there isn’t a single “best” yoga pose for liver disease, there are several yoga poses and practices that can be beneficial for liver health. Out of the many, you can practice these yoga asanas for your liver.

  1. Twisting poses like Ardha Matsyendrasana (Half Lord of the Fishes Pose) and Parivrtta Parsvakonasana (Revolved Side Angle Pose) 
  2. Forward bending poses like Paschimottanasana (Seated Forward Bend) and Uttanasana (Standing Forward Bend)
  3. Deep breathing exercises like Nadi Shodhana (Alternate Nostril Breathing) as well as Kapalabhati (Skull-Shining Breath) 
  4. Savasana (Corpse Pose)

Does Yoga Help In Liver Disease?

Yes. The historic benefits of yoga for liver disease trace back thousands of years, with ancient texts and teachings emphasizing its profound impact on overall health.  Yoga offers valuable support for individuals with liver disease, promoting overall liver health through improved blood circulation, gentle detoxification, and stress reduction. 

Are There Any Yoga Asans For Fatty Liver?

Yes, there are several yoga asanas that can be beneficial for individuals with fatty liver. 

  1. Twisting poses like Ardha Matsyendrasana (Half Lord of the Fishes Pose) as well as Parivrtta Parsvakonasana (Revolved Side Angle Pose) can help stimulate the liver and aid in detoxification. 
  2. Forward bending poses like Paschimottanasana (Seated Forward Bend) and Uttanasana (Standing Forward Bend) can promote gentle compression of the abdomen, supporting digestion as well as liver function. 
  3. Additionally, pranayamas (breathing exercises) like Nadi Shodhana (Alternate Nostril Breathing) and Kapalabhati (Skull-Shining Breath) can help reduce stress and support overall liver health.
CTA ImageCTA Image

Contact Us Today

We’re never leaving you hanging with doubts, queries, as well as confusing questions. We understand how all this information gets really overwhelming as well as a little confusing on your way to a healthy lifestyle. Hence, you can always contact us at any time as our experts are here to guide you 24/7. Also, we will help you achieve your weight loss goals.

Disclaimer

This blog post was written to help you to make healthy and better food choices altogether. So, be aware and take care. The important thing to consider is your own health before starting a diet that is restrictive. Always seek advice from a doctor/dietitian before starting if you have any concerns.

Eat Healthy, Live Healthy as well as Enjoy a long happy life

No Thoughts on What Are The Benefits Of Yoga For Liver Disease?

Leave A Comment


Get access to 1000+ healthy and tasty recipes, fitness tips and more. Subscribe to our newsletter

Get fit with the easiest weight loss journey planned by certified experts. Whatsapp Whatsapp Us Talk To An Expert