Nurturing Uterine Health Through Somatic Movement and Yoga
Growth of non-cancerous uterine cysts or fibroids are common and two out of three women develop them. They emerge from within the uterine lining or on the outer surface, sometimes as small as a grape seed or as large as a plumb. How can somatic movements and postural yoga support a condition where there are uterine fibroids? In order to keep the health of the intra-pelvic tissues, it is crucial to circulate fresh blood flow through the lower abdominal region. This is an area prone to excess weight and stagnation. Why do fibroids arise? It is hard to know. They tend to increase when there are hormonal imbalances or when there is compression or stagnation in the lower abdomen. Emotional and psychological holding patterns may contribute to agglomeration in the connective tissues of the reproductive system.
Yoga Postures for Uterine Wellness
Yoga postures that widen and passively stretch the uterine region are ideal to prevent the growth of cysts or fibroids. Circulatory and metabolic flow into the uterine cavity is essential for health of the reproductive system. Actively stretch the inner legs in order to widen the pelvis and increase circulation of blood and lymph through the lower belly. This allows the “breath” to move into the pelvic organs– the uterus, bladder and colon. This increases metabolic flow to the uterine tissues and supports the second chakra, the sacral chakra (the uterine ligament attaches to the sacrum). While it is not likely one can reduce the size of the growth of a fibroid, one can help prevent the proliferation of fibroid growths.
- Supta Baddha Konasana (Reclined Butterfly Pose)
- Prone Ardha Baddha Konasana (Prone one legged Butterfly Pose, see below)
- Circular flow in the Hips
- Prasarita Padottanasana (Wide Legged Stance)
- Bridge Pose with support
