How to Get Unstuck: What to Do When You're Constipated
Let’s be real: being constipated is the worst. You feel bloated and sluggish, like there’s a brick sitting in your stomach. What people don’t realize is that being constipated allows things that your body is trying to get rid of to sneak back into circulation. Pooping is an important method of detoxing, after all. And even though it’s not the most glamorous topic, it’s important to know what to do to get things back on track.
Why Am I Constipated?
First, let's figure out why you might be feeling backed up. Some common triggers include:
Stress: When life is chaotic (hello, exams or work deadlines!), your digestion can slow down because the priority is to get through this stressor, not digest your last meal.
Diet changes: Eating a lot of processed foods or not getting enough fiber can mess with your regularity.
Not enough water: Hydration is key for digestion, so if you’re not sipping enough H2O, things can’t slip n’ slide out of your system.
Lack of movement: Your digestive system needs to move so sitting for too long can slow things down.
Sound familiar? Don’t worry—there are plenty of things you can do to help get things moving again!
Gentle Solutions to Get Things Flowing
1) Gentle Laxatives:
Sometimes, you need a little nudge. Gentle options like our Reset Herbal Fibre Powder can help move things along. Just be sure to drink lots of water or it can actually exacerbate the problem.
2) Get Moving:
A little exercise can work wonders! Gentle movement, like yoga or even just a short walk, can stimulate digestion by moving your abdomen around. Twisting moves in yoga get a special shout out here. Plus, it’s a great way to relieve stress and boost your mood!
3) Gentle Belly Massage:
Lay down somewhere comfy and give your belly some love. Use your fingers to massage your abdomen in a circular motion, moving in the direction of your colon (clockwise). It can help stimulate the digestive system and get things moving. Bend your knees up if you’re having trouble relaxing your abs.
4) Castor Oil Pack:
This is an oldie but a goodie! Applying a castor oil pack (a cloth soaked in castor oil and placed over your abdomen with a heat pack) can help reduce inflammation and stimulate digestion. It’s a cozy, relaxing way to give your tummy some extra support.
Resetting Your Digestion: A Fresh Start
If you’re feeling constipated, it might be time to hit the reset button:
Warm, Cooked Foods: Avoid cold, raw foods for a bit and switch to warm, cooked meals. Think soups, steamed veggies, and grains like oatmeal or rice. These are easier on the digestive system and can help things move smoothly.
Regular Meal Times: Keep a consistent schedule for your meals and try to allow around 4 hours between them. This gives your body time to fully digest and reset before your next meal. It’s like giving your digestive system a chance to catch its breath!
Final Thoughts
Constipation happens to the best of us. The key is to listen to your body, give it a little extra care, and take steps to support your digestion. If you’re still feeling stuck after trying these tips, or if it’s a recurring issue, it’s always a good idea to check in with a healthcare provider.
Taking care of your digestion is a form of self-care, so be patient with your body and remember that small changes can make a big difference. Here’s to feeling your best, inside and out!