Stretches to Expel Stomach Gases

Gas buildup can cause sharp pains in your stomach.
i Tom Le Goff/Digital Vision/Getty Images

Gas pain can become trapped in your abdominal area, causing pain and bloating. The gas can build up if you talk while you eat or if you eat certain foods, such as broccoli or dairy, for some people. Stretching your lower back often puts pressure on your stomach, helping to expel the trapped gasses.

Kneeling Stretch

Putting pressure on the stomach can help push gases through your digestive system, and stretching helps relax your body so it can more easily expel gas. Try kneeling on the floor, with your hips touching your feet. Bend forward at the waist and place your hands over your head, resting on the floor in front of you. Take deep breaths, feeling your stomach press against your thighs as you breathe. This stretch is similar to the child's pose in yoga.

Camel-Cat Stretch

The camel-cat combination stretch moves your abdominal area to help get the gasses in your stomach moving. Get down on your hands and knees with your back flat. Round your back up and tuck your head to stretch your back, and hold for 10 seconds. Flatten your back, then round it down so your stomach is closer to the floor with your head up. Hold this position for 10 seconds, then repeat both moves.

Wind Release Pose

The yoga pose pavana muktasana is also called the wind release pose. By design, the pose helps you relieve gas pressure. Lie on your back on the floor -- not on a soft surface like a bed -- and bend your knees while pulling your legs in close to your body. Grab your knees with your hands and pull your legs closer to your stomach. You also can lift your head toward your knees to deepen the stretch and put more pressure on your abdomen.

Other Exercise

Getting your body up and walking for 15 minutes can allow gravity and motion to work the gas out of your body. If weather won't allow you to walk outside, try going up and down steps in your home or running in place. You can also try toe-touch stretches. For a seated toe touch, keep your legs straight in front of you and lean forward with your hands reaching for your toes. While standing, bend over from the waist, keeping your legs straight as you try to touch your toes with your fingers.

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