It’s estimated that around 1 in every 7 adults in the UK has constipation at any one time, according to the NHS. Thankfully, there is a really simple way to help relief yourself.
Dr Karan Rajan, who boasts a major following on TikTok and Instagram, explained how the traditional way to sit on a toilet might not be the best for everyone. In fact, changing this one thing can make a world of difference.
He said: “If you want to poop faster, you might want to try this. This isn’t going to solve chronic constipation issues or replace a fibre rich diet, but if you’re experiencing sudden internal plumbing issues, this could be your get out of poop jail free card.
“When you sit with one leg crossed over the other, it mimics the squatting position. This position changes the angle of the rectum by relaxing the puborectalis muscle.
“This is the muscle which normally creates a kink in the rectum to maintain continence. When the kink is lessened, it allows for more direct passage of stool and optimised poop physics.
“This position also increased the intra abdominal pressure – allowing you to squeeze out stool like you’re a frozen yoghurt dispenser. Essentially this poopy yoga position means a slightly more relaxed pelvic floor and less straining.
“If you’re someone that strains a lot on a regular basis that can lead to something known as dysnergic defecation. Basically, your body forgets how to poop properly and your pelvic floor contracts when it should be relaxing.
“If you don’t fancy toilet yoga, you can invest in a poop stool or just keep something under your feet to get the same effect.”
People in the comments were quick to share how they do this already and confirm it “works wonders”. One said: “This is really handy – especially if you’re out and don’t have something handy to help squat.”
Another added: “What about leaning all the way forward which is what I’ve always done ever since I was a kid? I kind of can’t believe I’m putting this on the internet!”
A third claimed: “Well, I did this unknowingly literally yesterday and let me tell you this works!”
