An alkaline flora is optimal for a healthy gut. It’s a common misconception that we can alkalize the stomach completely in order to prevent intestinal decay and with time abnormal cellular growth. Funny enough, the stomach is partly acidic as it needs to break down food and transport nutrients for proper assimilation. A right balance of the two ends of the spectrum – alkalizing and acidic is key. Our fast food diet compromises the alkalinity. By hitting multiple sources of alkalinity we can buffer the acids in the system in no time.

We all know that going green, hydrating amply, increasing intake of essential fatty acids, skin brushing and massage, or taking that first glass of warm water and lemon juice sets us right for the day. That’s just common sense. What we don’t consider often as an effective alkalizing tool, though, is breathing and exercise, particularly yoga asanas that help detoxify body and oxygenate the blood.

If you couple deep rejuvenating twists with forward bends and cleansing “power breathing” you will soon notice a boost of vitality and possibly a sweeter taste in your mouth. Twists help us rinse and soak the body, flushing out waste and purifying the blood flow. Deep diaphragmatic breathing emphasizing breath retention and breath extension, opens up the lungs and promotes rapid digestion and elimination. It soaks the tissue in fresh blood and brings oxygen to the brain, signaling an inner reboot. Just like hydrating the body in fresh water, satiating it with oxygen and life force help, revs up all functions and systems.

Last but not least, I discovered that giving the body a gentle rocking and rubbing through the forward-bending and twisting series acts as skin brushing, as it removes dead cells while facilitating the detoxification and waste elimination process. This simple rocking also aids in circulation by bringing the blood up to the surface. It stimulates the flow of lymph throughout the body and gives us an instant energy boost.

If you ever feel your tummy is acting up and causing heart-burn, don’t reach for the anti-acids. Instead, hydrate amply, prefer raw green foods, breathe deeply and season your practice with twisted forward bends.

This combined exercise-breathing program will give you an instant overhaul of your alkalinity and boost your energy – making you stronger, more energetic and amazingly lucid.

Yoga for Intestinal  Health: Alkalize (open level)

This yoga routine combines detoxifying twists, purifying breathing and deep forward bends to promote optimal gut flora and balance Ph levels – leaving you more vibrant and energized.