Often times yoga is overlooked as a pastime for the spiritual minded. Many men (especially) overlook this as a great form of muscle-building, toning and weight loss. Here we show you three key components to yoga and weight loss.
THE BODY AND TECHNIQUE
Yoga uses the asanas (the posture) put the body into condition. There are too many of these to mention, but we can familiarize you with the Sanskrit words that describe the types. The first one represents (actions) and it is called kriyas, the second one is seals and is called mudras, and the second the locks called (bandhas). They are all responsible for something. Kriya is there to move energy up an d down the spine. The mundra is actually a movement to concentrate energy and last but not least is the bandhas; this is simply a contraction of a muscle so that you focus the awareness on one point which is the part being contracted and nothing else.
THE MIND
You can tell by now that yoga is all about focusing the mind on a specific part of the body. A typical request by a yoga instructor may be that you focus on say, your spine for example or to literally let your body go and fall to the floor. This is more than just has a good stretch, this purpose is higher. It brings your mind away from the everyday worries we all participate in and refocuses it somewhere benign.
It is crucial to have your mind and body in a “safe place” before you jump into any workout routine. Yoga focuses your attention inward. One example we can use is savasana (the corpse pose), which is a common pose in all schools of yoga. For this pose you will lay on your back close your eyes and allow your body to sink to the floor. Yes it is like a delightful slice of death or sleep, hence the name. As the instructor guides you through imagery and has you to focus on a body part of their choice. Savasana is usually the last pose to calm, rest and balance you before the closing chants and breathing begin.
THE SPIRIT
Yoga has methods of controlled breathing; it is used as a pathway to merge body, mind and spirit. This method is called pranayamas; the prefix prana is the energy or life force, and the suffix ama is social ethics. This method is supposed to bond body, mind, and spirit when practiced. Controlled breathing helps you to focus on muscles; it is beneficial for those who want to lower their heart rate and develop a peace and calm. This is a popular technique for cardio patients and those who are looking to slim down, and permanently lower their blood pressure and overall health.