There are lots of reasons that yoga helps with weight loss that go far beyond the physical practice. In fact, calories burned alone can’t account for the the power of this ancient practice. I’m living proof. Yoga helps with all aspects of the weight issue–physical, mental, and emotional.
Seven Ways Yoga Helps with Weight Loss
- Reduces stress, stress-hormones, and as a result stress related eating
- Increases our overall mind and body awareness so we pay more attention to our eating behaviors and choices
- Improves our mood resulting in less emotional eating
- Improves muscle tone, balance, flexibility, and circulation leading to improved hormone function and better digestion
- Increases insulin sensitivity
- Encourages us to be kind to ourselves. Ahimsa, an important yoga teaching, means don’t harm. With regular practice, we may begin to ask, Is this really good for me? Do I really need another cup of coffee? Do these potato chips help me or hurt me? What needs to leave our life does with much less effort.
- Most importantly yoga teaches us that each day is a practice, an opportunity to gain insight; not a zero sum undertaking. We learn to be less judgmental and striving. Our weight fluctuates, but not like it used to. We begin to feel more balanced, our swings less extreme, able to find center without resorting to harmful behaviors. We realize we can turn to our yoga practice, breathe deeply, take a walk, or have a bath instead of raiding the fridge or nearest vending machine.
If you are interested in learning more about yoga, healthy eating, or weight loss, check out my website www.nourishing-yoga.com.
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