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Can Hernia Patients Practice Anulom Vilom, Kapalbhati, and Bhastrika?

Pushpa

Pushpa R  | Answer  |Ask -

Yoga, Mindfulness Expert - Answered on Nov 25, 2024

Pushpa R is the founder of Radiant Yoga Vibes.
In the last 10 years, she has trained over 400 people in yoga and counselled many others at corporate events.
She holds a master of science degree in yoga for human excellence from Bharathidasan University, Trichy.
Pushpa specialises in meditation, yoga for wellness and mindfulness.... more
Asked by Anonymous - Nov 24, 2024Hindi
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Can hernia operated person do practice anulom bilom, kapalvati and vastrika. Is there any restrictions?

Ans: If you have had hernia surgery, it is important to be cautious with yoga practices, especially breathing techniques like Anulom Vilom (Alternate Nostril Breathing), Kapalabhati (Skull Shining Breath), and Bhastrika (Bellows Breath).

Anulom Vilom is generally safe as it is a gentle breathing technique. It does not involve any strain and can help calm the mind and improve oxygen flow.
Kapalabhati involves forceful exhalation and can put pressure on the abdominal area. This is not recommended immediately after hernia surgery or for those with weak abdominal muscles.
Bhastrika involves deep and forceful breathing, which can also strain the abdomen. It should only be practiced if your doctor and yoga coach confirm it is safe for you.
After surgery, the abdominal area needs time to heal, and any strain can cause complications. It’s best to avoid practices that create pressure in the abdomen until fully recovered. Always check with your doctor first.

To practice safely, work with a yoga coach who can guide you on suitable techniques based on your recovery and health. A coach ensures you practice without risking harm.

R. Pushpa, M.Sc (Yoga)
Online Yoga & Meditation Coach
Radiant YogaVibes
https://www.instagram.com/pushpa_radiantyogavibes/
Asked on - Nov 25, 2024 | Answered on Nov 25, 2024
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Thanks Maam for your guidance. But i had that surgery a long ago i. e 8 yrs ago. Since then I had stopped kapalvati. Is it safe now to practice that and vastrika also? Regards
Ans: Since your hernia surgery was eight years ago, you can gradually try Kapalabhati and Bhastrika if fully healed. Start slowly with gentle practice and observe for discomfort. Consult your doctor first and practice under a yoga coach’s guidance to ensure safety and correct technique. Avoid strain and focus on gradual progression.

R. Pushpa, M.Sc (Yoga)
Online Yoga & Meditation Coach
Radiant YogaVibes
https://www.instagram.com/pushpa_radiantyogavibes/
DISCLAIMER: The answer provided by rediffGURUS is for informational and general awareness purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical diagnosis or treatment.
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Pushpa

Pushpa R  | Answer  |Ask -

Yoga, Mindfulness Expert - Answered on Mar 18, 2025

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I have umbilical hernia can i do suryanamaskar. I love doing it butvi got the hernia after uterus surgery. Kindly advise
Ans: I appreciate your love for Surya Namaskar, but with an umbilical hernia, you need to be very careful. Surya Namaskar involves forward bends, backbends, and core engagement, which can put pressure on your abdomen and worsen the hernia.

Can You Do Surya Namaskar?
It is not advisable to practice it without modifications. Certain movements, like deep forward bends and intense core activation, may strain the hernia area. Instead, you can focus on gentle yoga poses that strengthen your core safely.

Safe Yoga Asanas for Umbilical Hernia:
? Tadasana (Mountain Pose) – Improves posture and strengthens the body.
? Vrikshasana (Tree Pose) – Enhances balance without straining the abdomen.
? Supta Baddha Konasana (Reclined Butterfly Pose) – Relaxes the abdominal area.
? Setu Bandhasana (Bridge Pose, with support) – Strengthens the core safely.

Pranayama for Healing:
? Anulom Vilom (Alternate Nostril Breathing) – Improves oxygen flow.
? Bhramari (Humming Bee Breath) – Reduces stress and promotes healing.

Guidance is Important!
Since you have had uterus surgery, working with a yoga coach will ensure you practice safely. A coach can help modify poses to protect your abdomen while keeping you active. Wishing you a safe and healthy recovery!

R. Pushpa, M.Sc (Yoga)
Online Yoga & Meditation Coach
Radiant YogaVibes
https://www.instagram.com/pushpa_radiantyogavibes/

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Ravi Mittal  |676 Answers  |Ask -

Dating, Relationships Expert - Answered on Dec 04, 2025

Asked by Anonymous - Dec 02, 2025Hindi
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My married ex still texts me for comfort. Because of him, I am unable to move on. He makes me feel guilty by saying he got married out of family pressure. His dad is a cardiac patient and mom is being treated for cancer. He comforts me by saying he will get separated soon and we will get married because he only loves me. We have been in a relationship for 14 years and despite everything we tried, his parents refused to accept me, so he chose to get married to someone who understands our situation. I don't know when he will separate from his wife. She knows about us too but she comes from a traditional family. She also confirmed there is no physical intimacy between them. I trust him, but is it worth losing my youth for him? Honestly, I am worried and very confused.
Ans: Dear Anonymous,
I understand how difficult it is to let go of a relationship you have built from scratch, but is it really how you want to continue? It really seems to be going nowhere. His parents are already in bad health and he married someone else for their happiness. Does it seem like he will be able to leave her? So many people’s happiness and lives depend on this one decision. I think it’s about time you and your BF have a clear conversation about the same. If he can’t give a proper timeline, please try to understand his situation. But also make sure he understands yours and maybe rethink this equation. It really isn’t healthy. You deserve a love you can have wholly, and not just in pieces, and in the shadows.

Hope this helps

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