By: Salome Phelamei

Yoga is considered as a stress buster, a science of youthfulness and most of all a science of well-being. The ancient Indian science of exercise and healing system is also one of the most effective workouts for burning fats. Practicing yoga daily for 30 minutes in the morning can help in rapid weight loss and maintain an ideal body weight.

As we celebrate Yoga Day on Tuesday June 20, lets us take a look at how the age-old yoga asanas can help us fight against stubborn fats, particularly fat around your stomach, thighs and hips. Here are some yoga poses for weight loss that you should try:

Warrior pose or Veerabhadrasana

The warrior pose is one of the best workouts for weight loss as it strengthens the hamstrings, thighs, legs, ankles and muscles at the back - all at the same time. It also stretches your belly, lungs and chest.

Precautions

Individulas with high blood pressure and heart problems must refrain from performing this pose.

Cobra pose or Bhujangasana

This pose stimulates the abdominal organs and relieve stress. It also stretches the chest and abdomen. The cobra pose can also relieve backache as well as provice various health benefits ranging from head to feet.

Precautions

Pregnant women and individuals suffering from back injury, peptic ulcers, hernia, intestinal tuberculosis, and hypothyroidism should avoid doing this pose.

Half spinal twist pose or Vakrasana

The half spinal twist pose helps reduce fat in the abdominal region and strenghthens the spine. This pose also helps relieve back pain and relax the mind.

Precautions

Pregnant women, people with serious spinal complaints and individuals who recently undergone stomach surgery must not do this pose.

Boat Pose or Naukasana

The boat pose is beneficial for those who want to reduce belly fat tone their ab muscles. This pose strenghthens the abdomen and hip flexors. It also relieves stress and improves digestion.

Precautions

Pregnant and mestruating women, individuals suffering from severe artritis and low blod pressure should not perform this pose.

Seated forward bend or Paschimottanasana

This pose reduces fatty deposits in the abdomen. It stretches legs and back calming the mind. It also acts as a stress reliever and is good for constipation. It can also be beneficial for increasing height.

Precautions

Pregnant women and people suffering from slip disc or sciatica problem, asthma should avoid doing this pose.