Advice On Yoga For Weight Loss

posted on 01/25/2009

Weight loss should be more than about looking good, it should also evidence the desire to lead a permanently healthier lifestyle. Developing a regular yoga practice is an excellent way to holistically lose weight and improve your mind, body, and spirit.

Yoga positions are called Asanas. Asanas reduce cortisol (stress hormone that causes body to store fat) levels in your bloodstream,and also serve to activate and stimulate major glands- including the thyroid, which regulates your metabolism. There are two major types of yoga that can increase your heart rate and your ability to lose weight- Ashtanga and Hatha Vinyasa.

Ashtanga yoga is geared towards purification of the inner body. The steady flow of movement combined with a controlled and focused breath builds up intense internal heat, which in turn burns away toxins, fat stores, and gives your body a thorough cardiovascular workout.

Hatha Yoga is another excellent way to drop pounds. A regular Hatha practice will effectively reduce stress and provide your body with all over toning and reduce fat. Hatha also stimulates the internal organs allowing your body to operate more efficiently providing you with increased levels of energy.

Regular practice of yoga will ensure that your body reaps the maximum benefits of your Hatha or Ashtanga asanas. Not only will you begin to feel better, but also your posture will improve, your stamina, and your ability to maintain focus. Yoga is more of a lifestyle than a workout. The more you practice, the deeper your awareness of decisions your make regarding your body and their impact on your overall health.

Although western medicine has expressed some doubts regarding yoga's benefits for weight loss, experts and and practitioners alike, commonly attest to its ability to help you maintain high levels of health and fitness, all while shedding pounds. It is important to realize that as with any exercise you can incur serious injury if you don't know what you are doing. Before beginning a yoga regimen you should speak with your doctor and make sure to practice at a studio with a certified teacher.