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Yoga for Weight Loss
Increasing in popularity in Western cultures, the practice of asana, or yoga, as it is more popularly known, is a series of movements that are done in sequences that maximize the flow of oxygen and blood through the body. Focusing on the mind, spirit and body in union, yoga provides numerous health benefits.
Originating over 5,000 years ago this Hindu philosophy is a great way to lose weight. Involving the body as a whole, those who practice yoga achieve multiple benefits of which include strength, flexibility, and confidence.
Based o n a sequence of poses, yoga is also the best way to lose weight because those who practice yoga have achieve better breathing, posture, and muscle tone. Building muscle tone is a necessary component for fat burning.
The practice of yoga is an individual experience. Unlike other activities, which are based on competition, yoga is a personal journey that focuses on physical, mental and spiritual growth of each individual. It has been said about yoga that the physical achievements lead to spiritual discovery.
Since yoga is a personal experience, no matter what the level of fitness an individual is at, everyone can participate. Starting off slow and building up to a challenging practice is the best way to practice. Often times however, the intensity of a yoga regime is not enough to raise your heart rate to a level of aerobic exercise. In this instance it is recommended that it be practiced in conjunction with a running or walking routine.
Due to the gentle nature of yoga, many pregnant women are able to participate in yoga during pregnancy, and find it a great way to lose weight fast after birth.
Overcome Mental Barriers to Exercise
by Susan Patterson
Many people know what they should do to lose weight, but for obese women, there are several mental blocks that keep them from exercising. A study at Temple University of 278 women showed that women who were severely overweight had a hard time exercising because of several reasons. Among these were the feel that they were too fat to exercise, fear of injury or failure, thinking their health was too poor, having aches and pains and feeling self-conscious. Women were given follow-up questionnaires at three and twelve months, and these attitudes prevailed over the entire course of the study for those who were overweight. But you can overcome these attitudes and lose weight. Let’s look at them in more detail.
Stress Relief and Weight Loss
by Susan Patterson
While diet and exercise is the cornerstone of any sensible weight loss program, many people overlook the importance of stress relief. There will be a period of awkwardness initially, which can lead to higher stress levels. But overall, you need to make sure you are managing your stress properly in order to increase your chances for success.
Three Ways to Flatter Abs By Strengthening Your Core
by Susan Patterson
While there is no way to spot reduce fat through exercising or diet alone, one of the best ways to ensure a flatter stomach is by strengthening your core. In recent years, several forms of exercise have become popular that address this group of muscles, which are located in the abdomen, lower back and pelvis. They’ve been endorsed by Hollywood celebrities and models, who tout the longer, leaner look they’ve achieved through these low-impact exercises that are popular for their flowing, graceful movements and ease of practice. Many can be practiced at home, though some may require special equipment. Pilates, yoga, and use of an exercise ball are the most popular examples of these core exercises.
