Satya Yoga

Yoga is used to exercise all areas of the body; it will help with flexibility and will also reduce stress. It can also be used to target the stomach and make it flatter.

The enlarged stomach area is caused by fat that lies surrounding the body organs, and also by an accumulation of intestinal gases. This fat deposit is quite dangerous as it does not function like other fats found in other areas of the body. The fat has a large blood supply and many cortisol receptors. During high stress more of the cortisol is produced and more fat is deposited around the organs.

Poses, or Asanas, are used to work the stomach muscles, and reduce the abdominal fat around the organs, as well as release intestinal gases. You will have to judge your level and choose those asanas that you are most comfortable with, and work your way to the more difficult.

Here are some asanas that can flatten your stomach by improving tone:

· Pawanmuktasana (gas release pose) – Use a Yoga mat to protect the spine, and while lying flat on your back, first exhale, then as you inhale, raise your legs to a right angle from the floor, bend the knees to allow the thighs to press against your abdomen, holding the ankles and knees together. Wrap your arms around your knees with each hand holding the opposite elbow. Bring the neck forward and touch the knees with the chin. Hold this pose while breathing normally for 10 seconds and up to a minute. This pose helps reduce abdominal fat and releases intestinal gases.

· Bhujangasana (Cobra pose) – Lie prone on the floor, position your hands under the shoulders, as though you were about to do push ups. Lift your upper body off the ground using the back muscles and holding your head upright. Allowing your back muscles to do the work will help create greater muscle tone in the stomach.

· Dhanurasana (Bow Pose) – The pose is a little more difficult. Lie prone on the floor, lift the legs and upper body upwards at the same time. Your feet will be moving towards the back of the head and making a circle. You then grasp your ankles and pulling with your hands until the entire body is balancing on the belly button. Hold this pose at least 30 seconds. Release and repeat 2 to 4 times. This pose helps reduce abdominal fat.

· Paad-Pashchimottanasan – Lie on your back, with arms straight back and palms facing upwards. Pull yourself up using mainly your stomach muscles, keeping the hands overhead, keep the back straight, reach forward and grab the big toes, holding the head between the arms and in touch with the knees. This pose releases intestinal gas and reduces abdominal fat.

Yoga can be very effective in reducing abdominal fat, and releasing those gases from the intestines which give the abdomen a bloated look. The Asanas described above can be practiced for thirty minutes a day for the results you are looking for. But, as with all exercise routines, these poses will only be effective if they are supported by a healthy lifestyle and a well-balanced diet.