Exercises to beat bloating with Maeve Madden

Being honest about bloating is something Irish-born blogger Maeve Madden has never shied away from.

Having been diagnosed with PCOS (Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome) as well as IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome), the former model and professional dancer went on her own journey that has lead to her new book Beat Your Bloat: Recipes and exercises to promote digestive health. Here she shares some of her exercises to help beat bloat…

Arching Pigeon

• Start on your hands and knees. Bring your right knee forward so your right foot is underneath your left hip and your left leg is extended behind you. Flatten the top of your left foot into the floor and sink your pelvis into the mat.
• Slowly walk your hands back so that they are parallel to, or just behind, your hips. Ensure your head is centred directly above your pelvis. Draw your shoulder blades down and make yourself as broad as possible.
• Extend your spine and pull your head and shoulders back. Your head should be extended back past your hips so that it is now parallel to your bum.
• Hold the pose for 10-15 seconds and repeat on the other side.

Spinal Twist

• Start by lying on your back with your knees bent and your feet flat on the floor. Your arms should be resting by your sides.
• Drop your right knee to the floor and allow your left leg/knee to rest over the right leg.
• Hold this position for 10-15 seconds.
• Return to the starting position and repeat on the opposite side.

TRY MAEVE’S BURGER AND SLAW RECIPE