Of all the ways to strengthen and tone abdomen muscles, yoga is one of the best. The combination of slow movement, deep breathing and tightening of the muscles help define and build strength in a much more well rounded and beneficial way than simple crunches.
Triangle Pose
The Triangle pose got its name because you literally make a triangle with your body. To start, stand straight with your feet 3 feet apart. Turn one of your feet 90 degrees so it is pointing away from you and keep your other foot pointing in front of you. Bring your arms up so they are perpendicular to your body and bend your body toward the side where the foot is facing forward, placing that arm on the shin and the other arm up in the air. Look up, and hold this position for 15 seconds. At the end of 15 seconds, return to the neutral position. Switch sides and repeat. Make sure you do this three times for each side.
Tree Pose
For the Tree pose, start by standing up with your feet planted together and your arms at your sides. While you inhale, bend one leg at the knee and place the foot so it rests on the thigh of your other leg. Balance will be tricky, so don't move forward until you feel solid. Once you have gotten your balance, slowly raise your arms above your head and touch your palms together. Hold this position for 30 seconds and then come back to the neutral position. Switch sides and perform this again. Be sure to repeat two to three times for each side.
Eight Angle Pose
This extremely complicated pose is very good for your ab muscles, but should only be tried by people who are experienced in yoga. To start, stand straight with your feet apart. Lower your head and bring your hands behind you, interlocking your fingers, and breathe deeply several times. Lift you head slowly and bring your hands to your hips. Turn your feet slightly to one side and extend your arms so they are even with your shoulders. Do this for both sides of your body two or three times. Then bend your right knee and place your right hand on the floor with your left arm out stretched above you with your palm facing the floor. Repeat this on your left side. Kneel down on the floor, placing your palms on the floor in front of you. Move your feet behind you and press your hands down in anticipation of taking your body weight. Make sure your back is as straight as possible; your hips should be pushed back.
Lower your entire body to the floor, and slowly lift your stomach and chest up. Follow your chest with your legs,bringing them up over your head while crossing your ankles. Hold this position for 10 seconds and then lower yourself back down.
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