Our trunk can bend in all directions. Bending sideways is good for abdominal organs—liver, spleen, stomach, pancreas, small and large intestines. It is important to provide compression and extension to these organs, so that they are stimulated. Here is a simple technique to accomplish this using a stability ball. It also helps the back muscles and the shoulder complex.
METHOD
• Take a stability ball of size 30cm diameter
• Sit upright with legs crossed
• Keep the ball by your right side, and in line with the hip
• Hold the ball and position it close to the trunk
• Rest the right palm on the floor
• Slowly bend the trunk to the right side
• Rest your trunk on the ball and stretch the left hand
• Bring the left upper arm closer to the ear
• Ensure the left knee is not lifted
• Pull the left hand to induce stretch of the left lateral trunk
• Ball imparts good pressure on the right side of the abdomen and stretch on the left side
• Stay for about two minutes with slow abdominal breathing
• Slowly come up, bring the left hand down
• Change side and relax