How does Yoga help control weight?
Obesity is not just a simple weight gain but also a chronic health problem, closely related to many diseases such as diabetes, high blood pressure, cardiovascular disease and musculoskeletal disorders. According to the World Health Organization, the global obesity rate has nearly doubled since 1990, becoming a major challenge to public health.
While high-intensity exercises at the gym are not always suitable for everyone, yoga is considered a gentler, more joint-friendly and long-lasting exercise option. Fenil Purohit - a yoga expert at Fitness First center in Mumbai, India, said that yoga simultaneously affects the body and mind, helping to improve digestion, balance hormones and reduce stress, important factors in weight control.
According to Mr. Purohit, regular yoga helps strengthen muscles, improve metabolism and reduce the hormone cortisol - a stress hormone associated with belly fat accumulation.
Yoga poses that help reduce fat and boost metabolism
Experts recommend some yoga poses that can support fat reduction and enhance digestive system activity:
Naukasana (boat pose): activates abdominal muscles, helping to firm the abdomen.
Phalakasana (board pose): strengthens core muscles and supports calorie burning.
Vasisthasana ( tilted plank pose): strongly impacts the waist area, helping to reduce fat on both hips.
Bhujangasana (cobra pose): improves spinal flexibility and firms the abdomen.
Surya Namaskar: a 12-step series of movements that help increase heart rate and improve circulation.
Trikonasana (triangle pose): stretches the waist and helps reduce fat on both hips.
Ardha Matsyendrasana (spinal posture): massages internal organs and supports digestion.
Paschimottanasana (flexed posture): promotes the activity of the digestive system.
Utkatasana (chair posture): strengthens thighs and hips.
Virabhadrasana (warrior posture): helps to firm legs and improve balance.
Malasana (flower wreath): stretches hips and helps reduce fat in the inner thigh area.
Baddha Konasana (butterfly pose): helps relax the inner thigh muscles and improve blood circulation.
Beginners should practice gradually, focus on correct techniques and maintain regular practice. Yoga will be most effective when combined with a reasonable diet and healthy lifestyle.
