Can Yoga Help You Lose Weight?

Have you noticed that if anyone says or gestures that they want to lose weight, most of the time, they point to their guts saying "I gotta get rid of this!" Obviously, abdominal weight loss is a goal for many people, as well as a source of some shame. However, what most people might not be aware of is that, of all the exercise programs available, yoga actually can help immensely for weight loss in the stubborn tummy region. There are specific poses, all of them great for beginners, that target excess weight in the abdomen and coupled with a customized diet plan, those seeking abdominal weight loss would find success in using these yoga exercises. Here are a few basic yoga poses that can be done at home, alone and without any special equipment.

Tummy Weight Loss: Yoga Poses to Achieve It

1. The Sun Salutations: These are a combination of poses that serve as a warm up-routine for most yoga sessions or classes. They are very similar to the popular calisthenics exercise from our childhood known as burpees. They differ in that they have a spiritual significance included as a result of executing them. Due to the forward and backward bending motions involved, after performing a few to several rounds on a daily basis, you are bound to notice a marked loss of weight in you gut area and the added bonus of cellulite reduction. 2. The Bow Pose: This simple pose involves laying flat on your belly and reaching back to grab your ankles with both arms while simultaneously lifting your head up high. Needless to say, it is a pose commonly recommended use after you are warm and loose. It is a great exercise for weight loss. 3. The Peacock Pose: This pose is slightly more challenging and requires a bit more concentration. Your goal is to balance your abdomen on your elbows while simultaneously raising your legs and head off of the mat. It also is best done after you are loose and your muscles are warmed up. It will speed up abdominal weight loss and help to tighten those stomach muscles that have become a bit saggy. 4. The Abdominal Lift: This isn't really a pose but is a specific exercise that involves you exhaling carefully and pulling the diaphragm in while holding your breath. This is a specific abdominal exercise for weight loss, spiritual rejuvenation and detoxification.

Learn More About Yoga

As yoga has been around for hundreds of years, there are other poses. Some of the more common ones are the shoulder-stand, the forward-bending pose, the spinal twist and the wheel pose. These also target increases in muscular tone and weight loss in the abdominal regions. The 4 listed above will perhaps be the most effective in the short term, especially if your goal is weight loss. Do note though that if you are female and pregnant or in your menstrual period, some of these poses might not be the best to execute. Since these poses,besides helping with weight loss, work towards detoxifying, it is advised that you follow a healthy and proper diet. It's important to watch your vitamin intake while exercising, you will find that your body is burning a lot of calories. Eat smart, exercise smart and you will see a steady and long lasting weight loss.