Numerous methods claim to promote smooth bowel movements. However, many people may not be aware that stretching the muscles in the back and legs can help relieve chronic constipation. Rocky Liao, a classical Chinese dance instructor, introduces four stretching exercises for constipation relief.
According to traditional Chinese medicine, meridians are the channels through which energy flows, responsible for transporting qi (vital energy) and blood throughout the body. The circulation of qi and blood maintains the balance and stability of various tissues and organs. Meridians are connected to different parts of the body, with the bladder meridian being the longest.
It runs from the top of the head, down the back, through the back of the thighs and calves, and extends to the outer sides of the feet. The bladder meridian is associated with detoxification and metabolism. Stretching exercises for the back and the back of the legs can activate and unblock the bladder meridian, thereby improving the body’s metabolic processes.
Stretching Exercise 1: Front Leg Stretch Sit on the floor (use a yoga mat if you like) with your back straight. Extend one leg to the side and keep it straight. Bend the other leg at the knee with the sole of the foot facing the inner thigh of the extended leg.
Lean your body toward the extended leg, aiming to touch your stomach to your thigh. Hold the position for 10 seconds before rising back up. Perform 10 repetitions.
Lean your body toward the bent leg, a.
