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Yoga Poses to Combat Aging and Belly Fat

by Daisy

Yoga has long been celebrated for its numerous health benefits, including improving flexibility, strength, and mental clarity. According to Heather Jacoby, a certified yoga teacher, certain yoga poses can particularly help reduce the effects of aging and combat belly fat. Here are five essential poses she recommends:

1. Downward-Facing Dog (Adho Mukha Svanasana)

Benefits: This pose is known for strengthening the core, improving circulation, and stretching the hamstrings, which collectively contribute to a more toned and youthful physique.

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How to Do It:

  • Start on hands and knees, knees hip-width apart, and hands shoulder-width apart.
  • Push your hips up and back, straightening your legs as much as comfortable.
  • Aim to keep your heels flat on the ground.
  • Lengthen your neck and spine while gazing between your legs.
  • Hold for 5-10 breaths.

2. Warrior II (Virabhadrasana II)

Benefits: Warrior II enhances leg and core strength while promoting better posture, which can help you feel more confident and exude youthful vitality.

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How to Do It:

  • Stand with feet hip-width apart.
  • Step one foot back and turn it at a 45-degree angle.
  • Bend your front knee to a 90-degree angle, ensuring your shin is perpendicular to the floor.
  • Extend your arms to the sides, palms down, and gaze over your front hand.
  • Hold for 5-10 breaths on each side.

3. Plank Pose (Chaturanga Dandasana)

Benefits: A classic strength-building pose, the plank strengthens your core and arms, enhancing balance and stability, which is crucial as we age.

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How to Do It:

  • Start on hands and knees, positioning your hands shoulder-width apart.
  • Shift back to reach a high plank, forming a straight line from head to heels.
  • Engage your core, keeping your back flat.
  • Hold for 30 seconds, gradually increasing the time as you build strength.

4. Bridge Pose (Setu Bandhasana)

Benefits: This pose counteracts poor posture by opening the chest and promoting better alignment, which can enhance your overall appearance and energy.

How to Do It:

  • Lie on your back, knees bent, feet flat on the floor, hip-width apart.
  • Lift your hips to form a straight line from knees to shoulders.
  • Interlace your fingers beneath your body or rest your arms by your sides.
  • Lift your chin gently to lengthen your neck and hold for 5-10 breaths.

5. Cat-Cow Pose (Marjaryasana-Bitilasana)

Benefits: This dynamic stretch improves flexibility in the spine, enhances circulation, and alleviates tension, contributing to a healthier back and neck.

How to Do It:

  • Start on hands and knees in a tabletop position.
  • Inhale, arch your back (cow pose), lifting your head and tailbone.
  • Exhale, round your spine (cat pose), tucking your chin and tailbone.
  • Alternate between the two poses for 5-10 cycles.

Conclusion

Heather emphasizes that the beauty of yoga lies in its immediate and long-lasting benefits. Incorporating these poses into your routine can improve circulation, strengthen your core, and potentially reduce belly fat, promoting a more youthful appearance and vitality.

Related Topic:

Why Yoga Is Best for Those Over 60

How Many Calories Does Corepower Yoga Burn

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