If you’re looking to shed fat, tone up your body and strengthen your core in order to reduce back pain, tighten up your abs and get fit, then you’ll want to give these powerful fat-burning yoga poses a try.
Many people are surprised to discover just how effective yoga can be at helping you lose weight but keep this in mind: muscle burns more calories than fat, right?
And with yoga, you are building muscle mass through a series of regular strength and balance based activities. By incorporating yoga into your day, your muscles will also begin to lengthen and tone, which helps you look slimmer!
And yoga helps support weight loss in yet another powerful way. It works towards relieving pressure and tension and helping you find balance and clarity in your life. An uplift in your mood and a practice that supports discipline and mindfulness will make it easier for you to stay on track with your weight loss goals!
Here are a couple of yoga poses to help you get started:
Upward-Facing Dog Pose
Note: You shouldn’t practice Upward-Facing Dog pose if you have carpal tunnel syndrome or recent back or wrist injury without first consulting with your doctor.
Step 1: Begin by lying face-down on the floor. Extend your legs behind you, spread a few inches apart. The top of your feet should rest on your mat.
Step 2: Place your hands on the floor alongside your body, next to your lower ribs. Keep your elbows tugged into the side of your body and your fingers pointed to the top of your mat.
Step 3: Inhale deeply as you press your hands firmly to the floor. Straighten your arms, slowly lifting your torso and legs just a few inches from the floor.
Step 4: Press down firmly through the tops of your feet. You’ll feel your leg muscles engage.
The objective is to keep your thighs lifted away from the floor. Keep your elbows tucked alongside your body as you drop your shoulders and lift your chest towards the ceiling. You can either keep your head neutral or gaze upwards if you’re comfortable.
Step 5: Hold the pose for up to 40 seconds. To release, exhale as you lower your torso slowly and place your forehead to your mat.
Upward Plank Pose
Step 1: Begin by sitting with your hands placed a few inches behind your hips with your fingers pointing forward.
Step 2: Bend your knees and place your feet flat on the floor, big toes turned inward and heels placed at least a foot away from your buttocks.
Step 3: Begin with a deep exhale, then press your inner feet and hands down against the floor.
Step 4: Lift your hips until you come into a reverse tabletop position, with your thighs and torso parallel to the floor.
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