Yoga is often overlooked as a hobby for spiritually minded people. Many men (especially) overlook this as a great way to build muscle, tone, and lose weight. Here we show you three key components for yoga and weight loss.
THE BODY AND TECHNIQUE
Yoga uses asanas (posture) to put the body in condition. There are too many of these to mention, but we can get you familiar with the Sanskrit words that describe the types. The first represents (actions) and is called kriyas, the second is seals and is called mudras, and the second is called locks (bandhas). Everyone is responsible for something. Kriya is there to move the energy up and down the spine. The mundra is actually a movement to concentrate energy and last but not least, there are the bandhas; this is simply a contraction of a muscle to focus consciousness on a point which is the contracting part and nothing else.
THE MIND
You can already tell that yoga is about focusing the mind on a specific part of the body. A typical request from a yoga instructor might be that you focus, for example, on your spine or that you literally let your body go and fall to the ground. This is more than a good stretch, this purpose is greater. Take your mind off the everyday worries we all participate in and refocus it somewhere benign.
It is essential to have your mind and body in a “safe place” before beginning any exercise routine. Yoga focuses your attention inward. An example we can use is savasana (the corpse pose), which is a common pose in all yoga schools. For this pose, you will lie on your back, close your eyes, and allow your body to sink to the ground. Yes, it is like a delicious slice of death or sleep, hence the name. As the instructor guides you through the images and asks you to focus on a body part of your choice. Savasana is usually the last pose to calm, rest, and balance yourself before the closing chants and breathing begin.
THE SPIRIT
Yoga has controlled breathing methods; it is used as a way to merge body, mind and spirit. This method is called pranayamas; the prefix prana is energy or life force, and the suffix ama is social ethics. This method is supposed to unite the body, mind and spirit when practiced. Controlled breathing helps you focus on your muscles; it is beneficial for those who wish to reduce their heart rate and develop peace and calm. This is a popular technique for cardio patients and those looking to permanently lose weight and lower their blood pressure and overall health.