Ann: I’ve attempted several yoga classes and always end up with severe digestive problems. I can’t have my head lower than my body or I get GERD. I tried not eating before a session, but I still have the problem. Do your tapes have exercises or poses that have the head lower than the heart? I need to do poses with my head in an upright position. Thank you.
Susan: As you may know, Ann, yoga isn’t just about the outer body and muscles, it is a detox of the internal organs of the body as well. That is one of the major rejuvenating benefits of a yoga practice. When you do twists and inversions, and most of the other poses, you are bringing fresh oxygenated blood to your organs and cleansing them.
If you’re having an issue with GERD, it probably isn’t directly related to bringing your head below your heart. I would recommend that you consult with your doctor about it. It may be that you have some other medical issues that need to be addressed.
I hope this helps and that you will be able to continue with your yoga, as well as being treated medically for your other issues.