Expert: Daljit Kaur - 10/22/2008

Question
I am a 56 year old female suffering from Levator Ani Syndrome. Can you give me advice as to which yoga postures will help relieve this condition? Thank you very much!

Answer
Hello Deborah


I am not aware of your general health. Presently are you practicing yoga or totally new to yoga practice? Although, I have not come across any patient of Levator Ani Syndrome, I will suggest yoga postures for you. I am sure  Yoga practice along with simple and nutritious  diet, and little bit of meditation will help you. When nothing seems to work, have faith in God.

1. Avoid constipation. Have a diet rich in fiber. Include lot of sprouts, salads and fruits in your diet. Drink plenty of water. Have fixed timings for meals.

2. For you relaxation of muscles is very important. Therefore try the following tips on relaxation.
http://ezinearticles.com/?Yoga-For-Relaxation-And--Relaxation-Techniques-For-Bus...


Preferably do your yoga practice early in the morning after clearing your bowels. Any time in your practice, you feel discomfort, stop particular asana and take rest. Do  not strain yourself excessively if you are not able to do any asana. If you are not able to achive desired pose, complete the movement till you feel comfortable. As you keep practicing you will be able to do most of the asanas.


3. Poses for practice

Pawanmukta Asana
http://www.yoga-for-beginners-a-practical-guide.com/pawanmukta-asana.html

Janushir asana
http://www.yoga-for-beginners-a-practical-guide.com/janushirasana.html

Yoga mudra
http://www.yoga-for-beginners-a-practical-guide.com/yoga-mudra.html

Uttanpada asana
http://www.yoga-for-beginners-a-practical-guide.com/uttanpada-asana.html

Shalabha asana
http://www.yoga-for-beginners-a-practical-guide.com/shalabha-asana.html

Cobra pose
http://www.yoga-for-beginners-a-practical-guide.com/cobra-pose.html


4.  Pranayama

Rhythmic Breathing
http://www.yoga-for-beginners-a-practical-guide.com/rhythmic-breathing.html

Alom Vilom Pranayama
http://www.yoga-for-beginners-a-practical-guide.com/alom-vilom.html

Agni Saar (This is highly recommended provided you do not have high blood pressure, then do not do this)
http://www.yoga-for-beginners-a-practical-guide.com/agnisar.html


5. Poses for relaxation

Shava Asana
http://www.yoga-for-beginners-a-practical-guide.com/shava-asana.html

Bal Shava Asana
http://www.yoga-for-beginners-a-practical-guide.com/bal-asana.html

Yoga Nidra
http://www.yoga-for-beginners-a-practical-guide.com/yoga-nidra.html
(while practicing use auto suggestion, concentrate on  the muscles in the affected area affirm to yourself that your muscles are getting relaxed, your are feeling better and you will get cured.


6. If you are new to yoga, you can join my free yoga course. Best approach for beginners is to concentrate on rhythmic breathing and alom vilom. Do not forget to relax in shava asana for 10-15 minutes after yoga practice.

7. In case of any query you can ask a follow up question.

8. I will be grateful to you if you can let me know about your application of yoga  to your illness.


I wish you good health, Hope this helps
Daljit

P.S
1. I wish you a Happy New Year
2. You can sign up for this free course for more info on yoga
http://www.yoga-for-beginners-a-practical-guide.com/free-yoga-lessons.html
3. How to start yoga?
http://www.yoga-for-beginners-a-practical-guide.com/free-online-yoga.html