Squat on the loo − it's good for you!
colon cancer
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Be proactive in avoiding colon cancer
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The effective removal of excrement from the colon is vital, failure to do so can cause constipation which increases the risk of colon cancer.
Alleviate hemroids (hemorrhoids)
In the squat position the intestine alligns correctly. The thighs supporting the abdomen prevent hernias and massage the intestine into action. The muscular contractions that push food along the digestive tract are hindered by the sitting position, yet assisted by squatting. The squat position eliminates the need for excessive straining alleviating hemroids.
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Optimum birthing position
During birth the squatting position gives a greater increase of pressure in the pelvic cavity with minimal muscular effort. The birth canal will open 20—30% more in a squat than in any other position. Squatting will prevent hemroids which often plague pregnant women. Squatting each day on the Lillipad will help prepare the body for this excellent birthing position.
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Beneficial spinal stretch
Squatting is a difficult position to adopt straight away, be patient and give yourself a couple of weeks to get used to squatting. The muscles we use to defecate are excercised by getting down into, and up out of, the squat position. Not only will your balance improve, you will also give your spine a beneficial stretch.
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Promote squatting
You can squat on the rim of a toilet, but be careful and check for cracks and sturdiness first. The squatting platform offered in the plans and the |
Lillipad
are safer options, they also promote the healthy concept of squatting to others. You can promote squatting by linking to this
Lillipad
website.
*References
Alexander Kira. |
The Bathroom.
New York: Penguin, 1976
Janet Balaskas.
New Active Birth.
London: Thorsons, 1991
Joseph Heller and William Henkin.
Body Wise
. New York:
J.P. Tarcher Inc./St Martin's Press, 1986
Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology of the British Commonwealth
, 1969
Sikrov, B.A.
Israel Journal of Medical Sciences
, 1987: 23
Jacobs, E.J. and White, E.
Epidemiology
, 1998 July, 9 (4)
