Yoga with a Stoma: Seeking Advice and Tips

Does anyone participate in yoga classes?  several exercises requie lying on your stomach and the full weight of the body just happens to be focused on the stoma site.  I was thinking of a medical donut or a beach ring that kids use.

I would appreciate suggestions as I would be crushed if I leaked while doing the routine.

Right now I have a blanket that is rolled up for the half of the tummy that is non stoma.  Trying to do the exercise and balance on the rolled blanket is not working.

Thanks

WWRafter

Hi WWRafter,

No, I haven't tried yoga classes but out of the two items you spoke of I think the medical ring would be much more secure. I'm sure there will be other folks to comment that might have some great ideas! You might even experiment with eatting early so your output is slower. Some say marshmellows slow down the output but I'm not sure for how long it would do it for.

Best wishes and let us know what works for you.

Hi Mrs.A,

I try not to eat 4 hours before the yoga session.  Marshmallows do work for me. 

I will truck on over to the store that sells medical rings.

Thank you for the reply and I will keep you informed.

WWRafter

Hi, I go to yoga classes in my local gym.  One of the teachers aften makes reference to squeezing your knees into your chest and compressing your colon . . . . . and I agree with not eating for a few hours before, which can sometimes be difficult.

I tend to use a stoma support belt.  Here in the UK there are several available on free prescription, such as Hiline and Supportex.

I did try a couple of Pilates classes, but 2 things put me off.  The lady teacher's references to clenching pulvic floor muscles, and squeezing  back and front passages together.  I don't think she liked having blokes in her class!  And the strain it put on the area around my ileostomy. I decided it wasn't worth the risk of a hernia.

Hi WWRafter, I also do some light exercise although other people that I know have a more aggressive workout.  I believe it all depends on the person and the surgery.  Everything is so individual with an ostomy.  Quick question....do you happen to attend the support group in Lower Bucks county?  You look very familiar as I attend that group once an awhile.  Take care.  Enjoy the Summer.  LH

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