Can you feel sick after yoga?

The answer is yes. There are many factors that contribute to after yoga nausea; eating a meal before class; release of toxins and the body moving through emotions and trauma.

Let me elaborate a bit. In an intense yoga class the body is sending blood to major muscle groups. Therefore, sending blood away from the stomach and digestive system. It might be better to attend class 1 1/2 - 3 hrs after a regular meal. Pay attention though if you need a snack, keep it small with protein and carbohydrates. Dehydration or lack of electrolytes can as contribute.

Whether you attend hot yoga or room temperature yoga classes the release of toxins happen, but not always in the way we think. We sweat and yes that is a removal so some toxins. The breath and the digestive tract actually facilitate a greater avenue of release. Pranayama helps to release toxins and yet can calm the physical affects of toxin release. If you become nauseous sit or lay down, reconnect to your breath, breathing long full inhales and exhales.

The last reason I believe that may have you feeling sick after a yoga class is from trauma and emotions that are held in the physical body. Many times it is trauma from years past. Yoga provides a healthy movement for body, mind and soul. We often bind through our lives trauma and painful experiences in our bodies. When moving, breathing with intentional awareness we open the muscles to elongate and contract. Creating a practice that can challenge us whether in stillness or in asanas. It is from that resistance the body is ever changing and moving forward to what is better. There may be memories that arise or a complete lack of. It is important to not judge the physical nausea that may arise but to be grateful that your body is becoming more healthy by letting go of the past.

Well, I hope this gives some answers to this question. Be mindful here, if you have changed how you do things and are still feeling sick, please consult a doctor.

Christina Garcia

Christina discovered yoga in 2009. A broken ankle and months of rehab lead her to her first hot yoga class. She also found relief from depression and with weight gain. Wanting to encourage others to find their own healing in mind, body and soul; she became a yoga teacher in 2012.  Now teaches a faith based Hatha instruction using affirmations from the Bible. Passionate about wellness and wholeness she instructs based on sound biblical principles. Christina’s style is filled with energy as she combines body awareness, strength and freedom. Trained in Yogalates, certified Yoga therapist, and Trauma sensitive yoga.