Most women consider their stomachs one of their problem areas when it comes to weight loss. Having extra stomach fat can actually lead to heart disease and type 2 diabetes, according to Health. Get rid of your pooch just in time for summer with these 4 easy yoga poses, combined with a healthy diet. You'll be on your way to abs like Britney Spears in no time!
[Photos: Shutterstock]
Utkatasana, or chair pose to the rest of us non-yogis, works not only your abdomen and diaphragm, but also your arms and legs. To master this pose, stand with your feet slightly apart and stretch your arms straight outward with your palms facing the ground. Bend your kness like you're about to sit down while exhaling. Hold this pose for 30 seconds to a minute.
Vrksasana, or tree pose, doubles as the perfect abdominal yoga move that simultaneously improves your balance. Begin by standing in mountain pose, then pull your foot up and position it against the opposite thigh. Press the sole of your foot into your thigh, and resist with your leg. Press your hands together in front of you and hold this pose for about 30 seconds to a minute. Switch sides.
Cobra pose, or Bhujangasana, stretches your abdomen and stimulates your abdominal muscles, according to Yoga Journal. To get in to this pose, lie facedown on the floor while stretching your legs. While you inhale, straighten your arms and begin to raise your chest. Press the lower half of your body into the floor. Tighten your shoulder blades and hold this pose for 15-30 seconds. Keep breathing steadily and and exhale as you lower back down.
Last but not least, try downward facing dog with a twist—pulsing your knees to your nose. This works your lower abs. Get into the downward facing dog pose and bring one of your knees in, getting as close to your nose as you can. Alternate between legs while breathing deeply. Repeat until your abs are on fire!
