Will Yoga Help Me Lose Weight?
I’m frequently asked this question and decided I would share my thoughts with you.
Yoga practice provides us with so much more than a bend and stretch, working on every system of the body, mind and breath. Weight loss or weight gain can also be a side-effect as regular yoga practice often stabilises our metabolism. My yoga students frequently report they experience a wonderful feeling of ‘well-being’ plus:
Increased Strength, Stamina, Flexibilty, Energy, Vitality, Contentment, Peace, Compassion, Joy, Self-Love and Awareness of Self and Life itself. Plus a better night’s sleep.
A Reduction in Over-thinking, Anger, Stress, Anxiety, Depression, Mood Swings, Faulty Condition, Destructive Habits, etc.
One of my favourite yoga texts is The Hatha Yoga Pradipika written by Nath Yogi Swatmarama in 1350. It is a very clear, concise, step by step guide to yoga practice. It include Asana, Bandha, Mudra, Kriya (cleansing techniques), and so much more.
The title of this book means:
Ha = Sun
Tha = Moon
Yoga or Yug = to Join
Pradipika = “light” or to illuminate
In essence to shine light or illuminate how to join the sun and moon. Or according to JivamuktiYoga.com “The low down on how to go beyond all limitations posed by living in a mundane reality where nature and spirit are kept separate.”
I want to share two verses from the Hatha Yoga Pradipika translated by Swami Muktibodhananda Saraswati, Bihar School of Yoga 1998:
1:15 “Overeating, exertion, talkativeness, adhering to rules, being in company of common people and unsteadiness (unwavering mind) are the six causes which destroy yoga.”
1:16 “Enthusiasm, perseverance, discrimination, unshakable faith, courage, avoiding the company of common people, are six causes which bring success in yoga.”
I’m simply travelling my yoga journey, am quite loquacious, enjoy the company of all people, love and enjoy my life. I’m heavier now than I’ve ever been but I’m very comfortable in my skin, feel healthy and full of vitality. So why not give yoga a try and see what magic unfolds for you on your yoga mat?
These photos were taken 20+ years ago when I was very slim but I prefer my current curvier vessel for my soul!
