Yoga For Weightloss
Updated: Jan 22, 2022
It’s dangerous to be overweight. Obesity-related conditions include heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, joint pain and certain cancers. CDC statistics for 2017-2018 reveal that 42.4% of American adults are obese. The national adult obesity rate has increased by 26% since 2008. The pandemic has made it even more challenging to lose weight.
Despite the wealth of diets and information available, it is very difficult for most people to lose the weight and keep it off. There are many reasons for this. One often overlooked aspect is mental health. It can be a game-changer in the success or failure of a diet program.
Overeating is an unhealthy behavior that is often triggered by stress, depression or anxiety. These negative emotions cause an imbalance in our stress hormone (cortisol). Elevated cortisol makes it difficult to control hunger. More cravings occur, leading to a never- ending cycle of failed diets.
Why do we overeat and how can we stop? These issues are complex. We might be unaware of, or unwilling to acknowledge, underlying issues. Practicing yoga can help. Yoga significantly improves mindfulness and focuses attention. It is an excellent tool to decrease emotional eating, binge drinking and other forms of self- sabotage. The breathing and meditation aspects of yoga combine to regulate the nervous system, balance cortisol and improve all organ systems. When we feel relaxed, we are more far likely to make wise, nutritious foods choices. Yoga also helps transmute the energy of trauma and ptsd in the nervous system. Repetitive trauma is a source of stress that fuels the self-sabotage cycle. The physical part of yoga class builds muscular strength and burns calories. The better we feel mentally, the greater our chance for success with weight loss. Don’t stay caught in the cycle of yo-yo dieting. Try something new. Through the mental and physical practice of yoga you can create the healthy, energetic life you’ve always imagined! For more info or a class schedule, please contact Joanna at joannagraceyoga@gmail.com.