A Yoga Move that Releases More Than Just Tension

Just when I thought I've heard it all, along comes something decidedly strange. Newsweek recently ran an article reviewing the effectiveness of seven fitness fads. One exercise in the bunch is maybe not so much a fad as it is a conversational starter (or ender, depending on the person). Traditionally known as purvana-mukta-asana, it's the yoga move more-fittingly referred to as 'the wind-releasing pose'.

Yep, it claims to do exactly what your mischievous mind is thinking: rid your body of excess gas. Now, the proverbial toot is not something we normally want made public, right? (Please tell me I'm right.) It may be wise to rethink doing this yoga pose in a crowded room, especially if your 'stale air activity' is a spin-off of last night's [insert notoriously odor-producing food here].

Other than the social etiquette concern, performing the wind-releasing pose is a peachy idea. This yoga move assists in stretching and strengthening lower back muscles. And, as is typical of yoga poses, it has the potential to relax the mind (that is, once you get over your fear of escaping flatulence).

So the next time someone touts their workout as being a real gas, they just may be telling the truth (for better or for worse, depending on where you're standing).

Worried about becoming an involuntary tooter during your next yoga class? Then follow these gas-busting tips:

• Avoid swallowing air. Accomplish this by eating your food slowly and nixing the gum-chewing habit.
• Don't worry, be happy. (Sorry, couldn't resist paying tribute to an old 80s adage.) But seriously, anxiety may induce gassiness. Then you'll really have something to stress about.
• Eat light before your yoga class. A heavy meal can quickly bring on the bloat.
• Avoid common problem foods. Dairy products, beans, and vegetables are high on the list of foods that tend to cause gassiness.