Yoga Positions For Weight Loss

Yoga complements weight loss not only for its calorie-burning ability, but also because it is known for its stress relief benefits. According to a study published in the American Journal of Epidemiology titled, "Psychosocial Stress and Change in Weight Among U.S. Adults," many types of stress, such as depression, strain in family or friend relationships, job-related demands, or difficulty paying bills, add to weight gain. Many yoga positions aid in stress reduction and coupled with a healthy diet can help with weight loss. Breathing deeply is also an important part of yoga, and helps with stress relief, so remember to breathe in and out of your nose in all yoga positions.

Dolphin Plank Pose

Dolphin Plank Pose is a core toning posture that also relieves stress. A pose that works the body from head to toe, according to YogaJournal.com by holding the pose from 30 seconds to one minute you soothe your brain, build your arms, legs and core and stretch your shoulders, hamstrings, calf muscles and foot arches. (REFERENCE #3). A blend of strengthening and calming, Dolphin Plank Pose is a pose to help with weight loss. Come to your hands and knees. Drop your forearms to your yoga mat, line your elbows directly under your shoulders and interlace your fingers. Walk your feet back until your torso is parallel to the ground. Straighten your legs, lift your heels so your toes support your body. Make sure not to let your belly sink toward the floor, but instead engage your core and hover parallel to your yoga mat on the toes and forearms. For weight loss purposes, stay in Dolphin Plank Pose for two minutes, then drop your knees to the ground and mindfully release from the pose.

Standing Forward Bend

Standing Forward Bend is a thigh and knee strengthening pose that improves digestion as well. Standing Forward Bend reduces stress, lessens fatigue and stimulates your liver and kidneys, says Cyndi Lee, an author and yoga teacher. Stand at the front of your yoga mat. Separate your feet hip distance. Fold your torso forward from your hip points over your thighs. Put a large bend in your knees if your hamstrings are tight. The knee bend will allow your torso to hug in toward your legs while lengthening your spine. Let your hands fall in front of your toes. Release your head and neck and stay in Standing Forward Bend for one minute.

Extended Puppy Pose

Extended Puppy Pose is a kneeling posture that opens the shoulders and stretches the spine. The therapeutic focus of the pose is for stress and allows you to go within and quiet your mind. Come to your hands and knees with the tops of your feet facing down. Make sure your knees are directly in line with your hips. Keep your knees on your yoga mat. Start to walk your palms forward until your forehead can reach your yoga mat. Try to maintain straight arms and keep your elbows lifted. Hold Extended Puppy Pose for one minute.