Yoga And Obesity

Asanas

The key factors that govern yoga are exercise and relaxation. While performing an Asana, it is important to be aware of the body movements

The yogic poses are to be performed according to one's comfort level, without coercion. When executed in a calm, relaxed manner, the body responds to the directions of the mind, which brings about a transformation. With each passing day, the body's flexibility increases and the movements become fluid and harmonious.

A Peek Into Obesity-Related Yogic Postures

1. Paschimothasana (Sitting crane): This Asana is also called the seated forward bend.

Steps:

1. Sit on the floor with your legs stretched out in front of you, in such a way that the feet touch each other.
   
2. Keep the spine erect.
   
3. Inhale and lift the arms above the head.
   
4. Exhale and bring your arms to touch the toes of your feet.
   
5. Bend the back to touch the knees with the head.
   
6. The knees can be bent slightly to make the head touch the knees.
   
7. Maintain this position up to a few breaths and relax.
   
   

2. Shalabhasana (grasshopper pose)

1. Lie on your abdomen.
   
2. The chin should rest on the floor and the legs must be held together with arms at the sides.
   
3. Inhale and slightly lift the legs upward until a stretch is felt along the back.
   
4. Hold for few breaths.
   
5. Exhale and come back to the original position.
   
   

Note: The above-mentioned asanas are easy to perform and they should be done in a relaxed pace.The practice of asanas should never be done in a hurry and attention should be paid to body movements. The asanas should be done with concentration, as it prepares the mind for meditation.