Role of Yoga in gastro-intestinal problems w.s.r. to Constipation (Vibandha) in geriatrics

Abstract

Jararoga can be incorporated in geriatrics in modern parlance which is a branch of medicine concerned especially with problems of ageing and diseases of elderly people. It tends to vary in different age groups by genetic factors, dietary habits, socio-economically conditions, life style, occurrence of diseases etc. Ayurveda has considered aged or elderly as Jara or Vardhakya, a natural disease. During this period of life, due to Dhatukshaya, Vatavriddhi etc., Vatika disorders related to Gastro-intestinal tract like indigestion, abdominal distention, flatulence, diarrhoea, joint pain, backache, tremors in limbs, Insomnia are common problems. Among these constipation (Vibandha) is commonly complained by every second elder person. So, to treat this problem completely various Yogic procedures which are economically almost free can be a good alternative to treat constipation holistically. Management of geriatric G.I.T. problems especially constipation by Yoga can be done in two ways, by Yogic Ahara and by Yogic Vihara as Acharya Charaka says “Ahara Sambhavam Vastu Roga Aahar Sambhava”. Yogic Vihara means by various Yogic Kriyas and Asanas like Surya-namaskar, Vajrasana, Pashchimothasana, Dhanurasana, Pranayama, Pratyahara and various Agnisara Kriyas through one can get control over Apana Vayu by correcting Jatharagni successfully.