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I am really struggling with my weight lately and honestly need some support here. About 6 months ago, I started doing yoga just to help with my stress and flexibility. I remembered hearing somewhere that "can we lose weight by yoga," but I’m wondering if that’s really true? I've noticed I feel more peaceful and stretched out after my classes, but the scale hasn’t budged much. I do a mix of Hatha and Vinyasa, and some days I even do it at home around my busy schedule, but still not seeing any real results. Like, am I doing something wrong? My friends say it's all about the diet too, but I thought yoga would at least help shed a few pounds on its own. Do we need to change our eating habits drastically along with the yoga practice? Sometimes I think I’m just being too impatient, ya know? I mean, like, can we lose weight by yoga or is it more about toning and flexibility? Ugh, I just want to feel better in my body. Anyone had success with this and can share any tips? I’d really appreciate some insight here, thanks!
Doctors' responses
Yoga can indeed support weight loss, though it’s often more subtle and gradual than other forms of exercise. While it’s true that yoga enhances flexibility and reduces stress, its role in weight loss involves a broader perspective. Practicing yoga can increase mindfulness and body awareness, which may indirectly contribute to healthier lifestyle choices, such as improved eating habits. However, more active forms like Vinyasa or Ashtanga can burn more calories and improve metabolism compared to Hatha yoga, which might be why you’re not seeing immediate results.
In Ayurveda, what’s critical is finding balance in your dosha (bodily energies) to improve your overall wellbeing. During your yoga practice, be mindful of your body’s signals. Regular practice can lead to a more balanced state, and when combined with the right dietary choices, can indeed result in weight loss over time. Yoga also works by aiding the digestive fire, or “Agni,” enhancing digestion and detoxification, which is vital for weight loss.
Considering your busy schedule, it helps if you implement small dietary changes gradually. A sattvic diet, favoring light and easy-to-digest foods, can be beneficial. Think more fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes, while reducing heavy, processed, and oily foods. Avoiding eating late at night can also help — this aligns with yogic and ayurvedic principles.
Patanjali, the father of Yoga, believes in “Ahar,” “Vihar” and “Achar” which refers to perfect recreation, diet, mental faculties for a harmonious life. Combined with your practice, this multi-faceted approach can produce more sustainable weight loss. Yoga also reduces stress, which can lower cortisol levels. This hormone, when elevated, can result in weight gain, especially around your abdomen.
The essence of a healthy lifestyle, including a balance between yoga, diet, and other physical activities, ensures better results. Don’t be discouraged by numbers on a scale. The feeling of peace you gain after Yoga is itself immensely valuable. Weight loss is a journey that involves patience. Celebrate small victories, while staying consistent with your practice and showing mindful attention to your body’s needs. It’s not just about weight loss but also feeling healthier and happier in your own skin.
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