Healthy Living

Practicing yoga increases your metabolism. An increased metabolism increases the calorie burning process. Combining yoga with a calorie burning program may bring you excellent results. Of course, the use of yoga is no rapid weight loss method. Used over a period of time, though, it can bring good results. If you keep to the rigors imposed by yoga discipline, you should gain a holistic, long term solution to balance your life style and help reduce and prevent excess weight. In addition to losing weight, you will also experience an increased ability to concentrate and focus, higher resistance to stress factors, and overall a healthier way of life.

Yoga and the Body

The metabolism is regulated by the thyroid, a component of the endocrine system. The thyroid is responsible for the chemical processes that transform food into energy. Yoga uses a series of twisting poses that stimulate the work flow of the internal organs, thus creating an increased metabolism. This, in turn, burns more calories, and reduces your body weight. Improved local blood circulation is another direct effect of the use of yoga postures, leading to a healthier, more energetic body. When the calorie intake is lower than the calorie output, your body burns fat cells to acquire the necessary energy. A healthy and increased metabolism takes this process even further, and you may well see better results than traditional weight loss formulas.

To stimulate the metabolism, various back and forward bends are used. Poses that affect the neck area, where the thyroid gland is situated, are particularly helpful if the weight problem is caused by a hormonal imbalance. These poses can be those of the Camel, Rabbit, Plow, Bridge and Shoulder stand. Moving quickly between a series of poses can accelerate the process. To those who are well overweight, some bends may prove to be a difficult. If you fall into that category, don't despair. Work with a certified instructor to modify positions so that you can do them with comfort. You should gradually increase the difficulty of the postures until you have the confidence to go to more complex exercises. This is not a test or a competition; you need to be relaxed and at ease, and just do what you can. Each time, you will probably find it that much easier, and you can do a little more.

To strengthen muscles, use standing poses, such as the Warrior. The use of standing poses creates a higher level of endurance, and an increased caloric output. You may energize the body and increase your metabolism even more by using Kapalabhati and Ujjayi Pranayama. These are yoga breathing techniques.

Yoga and the Diet

A balanced diet should also be followed to support this holistic weight loss system. You should eat nutritious foods that are rich in fiber, such as vegetables, fruit, and whole grains. For added protection, a nutritional supplement can ascertain all vitamin and mineral needs of your body are met. Reduce the amount of fat and processed food items in your diet for the best results. The nutrition provided by a balanced diet is essential to maximize the benefits of yoga. Variety is good, as is modest consumption.

A gradual approach is essential with all yoga practices. Do not expect results to be spectacular and immediate, but this is one of the best long term weight loss methods available. In addition to weight loss, you can also benefit from an increased protection against adverse factors through your improved immune system and sense of well being. Hopefully, too, you will feel an inner peace that will assist you in losing weight without succumbing to all the pressures and temptations.