The Art of Healthy Eating

Lesson Seventeen

Stress. It messes with your brain. And it’s not great for your gut either.

Stress can cause tummy troubles, constipation and make you feel bloated and miserable. Thankfully, there are plenty of things you can do to feel less stressed. Most gyms now offer classes in yoga, Pilates and stretching. All of them help you focus on breathing, body control and relaxation.

Just ten minutes a day can do you the world of good. When you breathe properly, more oxygen is taken into your lungs and your blood, which helps digestion. And you’ll find you feel a whole lot better about life.

Action
This simple stretching exercise aids digestion by freeing your rib cage and helping you to breathe more healthily.

• Stand straight with your feet together and interlock your hands under your chin.
• Inhale deeply for a count of five through your nose, lifting your elbows.
• Drop your head back slightly as you exhale through your mouth, drawing your elbows together.
• Bring your head up again, draw your elbows up and repeat five times