Certain styles of yoga may burn more calories than others, but a consistent yoga practice of any kind can have a positive effect on weight loss and weight control. According to a study led by Dr. Alan Kristal of the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center in Seattle, people who regularly practice yoga will lose weight over time versus gain. As with any new exercise routine, consult your doctor first.
Ashtanga Yoga
Ashtanga yoga is a powerful form of yoga that includes a sequence of 40 yoga postures. The postures generate heat within the body and raise the heart rate into the aerobic range. Ashtanga yoga was brought to the west by the late Sri Pattabi Jois. Ashtanga yoga will build your strength and endurance, make you sweat, and keep your body light. However, some Ashtanga yoga poses are advanced, so it is not for beginners.
Iyengar Yoga
Founded by yoga master B.K.S. Iyengar, Iyengar yoga is a system of more than 200 yoga poses that are performed with the use of yoga props. The poses are held for longer than 30 seconds and in some cases up to 15 minutes in order to ensure proper alignment and focus on the therapeutic aspects of each pose. The use of props makes Iyengar yoga suitable for practitioners at any level. Iyengar yoga improves the function of the body's organs, which will improve your metabolism and regulate your weight.
Vinyasa Yoga
Vinyasa yoga is a style of yoga where a series of poses are completed in a flowing movement. The movements are combined with the breath and will get your heart rate up, increasing weight loss. Vinyasa yoga was pioneered in India by the late T. Krishnamacharya. Many variations on Vinyasa yoga are available today, including Baron Baptiste's "Power Vinyasa" and Shiva Rea's "Prana Flow."
Other Considerations
According to "Yoga Journal" medical editor Timothy McCall, M.D., yoga is the most powerful system of overall health. Practicing yoga regularly makes you more aware of your body. You'll start to feel what overeating and remaining sedentary does to your body. You'll learn how to eat to live versus live to eat. Yoga also helps your organs function properly, improving your digestion, metabolism, and hormone function. The results may be slow, but are more permanent than other methods.
References
- Ashtanga Yoga: Home
- "Yoga, The Path to Holistic Health"; B.K.S. Iyengar, 2001
- "Ayurvedic Yoga Therapy"; Mukunda Stiles, 2007
- "Krishnamacharya, His Life and Teachings"; A.G. Mohan, 2010
- "Yoga as Medicine"; Timothy McCall, M.D., 2007
- Fred Hitchinson Cancer Research Center; Yoga May Help You Fight Fat; Kristen Woodward; July 21, 2005
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