Regular yoga practice can help greatly in the reduction of belly fat (superficial or subcutaneous fat) and fat deposits within in the body (visceral fat). Both these types of fat compromise our ideal appearance, but the visceral fat surrounds our internal organs, finding it way into our blood vessels (including the heart) and can pose some serious problems, even inhibit their function.
Superficial (subcutaneous) fat is often considered a “good fat” It’s the same type of fat, that covers the face, arms, hips, and thighs. It can be pinched between the thumb and fingers and has certain health benefits, but only when it’s controlled.
There are several dynamic moves which can be added to the asanas which help in the reduction of the belly fat, such as twists and elongations.
Surya namaskar (Sun Salutation) helps to provide exercise for the whole body and helps the stomach to be free itself of fat while at the same time toning the body. Surya namaskar helps to improve flexibility of the spine and makes the limbs more flexible. While toning the entire body it burns extra cholesterol deposited around (and inside) the belly region.
Deep breathing exercises help to burn extra fat which is deposited around and in various organs of the body. Stomach lifts up and down along with proper breathing exercises show exceptional results in relatively short amount of time.
Now, on to some beneficial asanas…
• Marjarasana (Cat Cow Pose) – Cat cow pose is sometimes referred to as simply the Cat pose. It’s another of the most effective yoga stomach exercises. It’s easily performed by beginners and leaves you feeling open and stretched. This is one of the few yoga stomach exercises that is safe for pregnant women. Move your body with your breath while performing this exercise for the best results.
Benefits: Cat cow pose is one of the best yoga stomach exercises for conditioning the abdominal muscles and increasing flexibility of the spine. It tones the abdominal wall and massages the internal organs. The exercise also helps clear out emotional baggage.
• Bhujangasana (Cobra Pose) – This baby backbend can help compensate for all those hours spent hunched in front of a computer. Be patience as you learn the proper foundations of this pose, such as how to work the legs, pelvis, chest, arms, and especially the belly.
Benefits: Greatly assists in keeping the dorsal spine elastic and strong. Backache due to overstrain can be thus relieved. Also, helps considerably in reducing abdominal fat.
• Navasana (Boat Pose) – The body comes into a V-shape, balancing entirely on the buttocks. In different variations and traditions, the arms legs and torso may take different positions.You may perform the boat pose with or without the assistance of yoga props.
Benefits: This asana strengthens the abdominal muscles, the legs and the lower back. It is said to relieve stress, improve digestion and aid the abdominal organs: kidneys, thyroid, prostate and intestines, plus