Yoga has transformative potential on many levels, including weight. However, before jumping into a yoga regimen with the specific goal of losing weight in mind, you should consider that weight loss is a complex phenomenon that is influenced by multiple factors, including genetics, lifestyle, diet and individual choices. With that in mind, you can use yoga as a platform to experience many benefits, both physical and psychological, that could aid in your weight loss process.
Flexibility
With the practice of yoga, you will do a series of asanas, or poses, which are intended to stretch and loosen your muscles. Your muscles can become tight due to weight gain, tension, inactivity and stress. Tight muscles may strain your posture and hinder your ability to exercise properly. By practicing yoga, you can increase the range of motion in your joints, which will work to enhance flexibility and improve posture.
Muscle Mass
Yoga is known to strengthen, tone and lengthen your muscles. Although muscle mass may appear to contribute to weight, it will actually aid in your overall health and weight loss plan. According to yoga instructor Richard Rosen, muscles of those who participate in yoga are lighter than those of a weightlifter. Also keep in mind that muscle mass will help you to burn more calories throughout the day.
Mind-Body Connection
Yoga is more than physical exercise. It is intended to unite the mind and body through the practice of breath work with movement. As your mind and body begin to harmonize, you begin to experience increased self-awareness. This self-awareness can be carried with you off the yoga mat and into your daily life, helping you to make positive dietary and lifestyle choices that can aid in your weight loss goals.
Stress Reduction
Stress is often a contributing factor to weight gain. With the practice of yoga, you are rewarding yourself by taking time to de-stress and unwind, disconnecting from the outside world. Yoga should provide you with a positive, safe, nonjudgmental environment in which you can counteract the effects of your daily life stresses.
Yoga Styles
In order to achieve the benefits of yoga for weight loss, find a style of yoga that is right for you. YogaJournal.com explains that vinyasa-style classes use movement and breath to build heat in your body, which could result in increased calorie burning and could supplement other aerobic activities. Alternatively, restorative yoga may help you to regain posture and alignment, but may not burn as many calories. Further, an Ashtanga class will be very vigorous, but it may not be an appropriate place for beginners to start. Speak with a local yoga studio or instructor to find a style to suit your needs.
References
- "Yoga Burns Fat"; Jan Maddern; 2002
- YogaJournal.com: Can Yoga Help Me Lose Weight?
- "Yoga Research and Education"; Richard Rosen; 2002
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