In addition to all the mental and physical benefits, that hatha yoga has to offer to those who practice it with a serious diligence, it also has practical utilities such as helping us to lose weight, and once we achieve our desired goal to keep it for ever.

Yoga postures known as "asanas" in Sanskrit, are not simple physical exercises, as each of them directly affects several muscle groups, the internal organs and one or more endocrine glands. In addition, the practice with a concentration of the mind focused on a specific part of the body and breathing, it is of utmost importance to achieve the full benefits of the practice. We can read often that there is no yoga without concentration, and this is a great truth because although the physical benefits that yoga provides are wonderful, the ultimate goal of the practice is the conquest of the mind.

Basically and to help us with weight loss, yoga works on the glands, the metabolic rate, the calories expenditure, the flexibility and the work on specific muscle groups. The relax and peace of the mind also acts preventing the impulses to eat excessively and at unsuitable times. Let's see these topics in detail.

Glands: Certain yoga positions called of "inversion postures" have the particularity to stimulate the endocrine system, especially the thyroid that is the key in regulating the human metabolism. Some of these asanas are the well-known "Sarvangasana -Shoulder Stand" and the "Matsyana - Fish Pose". Some masters say that the thyroid gland is the "bull" of the body, because is the responsible for directing the hormonal function, and therefore maintain the metabolism in a perfect balance. This gland produces hormones that govern the basal metabolism, which is the amount of calories the body consumes daily to maintain the body functions such as breathing, digesting food, eliminating waste and sleep. By doing yoga regularly the thyroid finds its balance, secreting hormones in the right way and helping us with weight loss.

Internal organs: Besides strengthening the muscle groups, the yoga postures stimulate the internal organs such as stomach, intestines and liver. By allowing the energy to flow naturally, the functions of assimilation, digestion and elimination are normalized, facilitating the process to lose weight.

Muscles: Yoga tones and develops all the muscle groups, building long and lean muscles that burn calories also if you are resting.

Calories Burning: Contrary to the general thinking, in a yoga class you may burn between 250 to 400 calories. Because the hatha yoga has the advantage of revitalizing the body, you can practice every day and never feel tired as with other activities. For our weight loss goal, the best time for the routine is in the morning, because your metabolism will be activated during all the day and you will burn more calories in this way.

Peace of Mind: The concentration during the exercises and the relaxation, creates a mental climate very stable, that leads into a more thoughtful attitude in all areas of your life. This environment of physical energy and calm is very effective to avoid bad habits linked with food.