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Regular yoga practice is known to have both physical and mental health benefits. There are some yoga poses that can help to stimulate the thyroid gland, balance hormones and help speed up a sluggish metabolism. One pose, in particular, is the Prayer Twist or Revolved Chair Pose.
The prayer twist is a deep twisting posture that increases spinal mobility while strengthening thigh, core, and back muscles. Twist poses, like the prayer twist, help to align the spine and invigorate while massaging the endocrine and abdominal organs and boosting metabolism.
While you may not have the time to engage in a full-on yoga routine in the morning, the prayer twist is a stretch that’s easy to master. Best of all, it can be done right out of bed when you wake up in the morning—no yoga mat needed!
How to Do a Prayer Twist
Begin in Mountain Pose with your feet together and your arms by your side.
Bend your knees and squat down while keeping both feet on the floor while keeping your pelvis neutral, your pelvic floor muscles engaged, and your inner thighs contracted.
Bring your palms together in a prayer position in front of your chest.
Inhale, and lengthen your spine. As you exhale, lean forward slightly and twist your upper body to the right.
Bring your left elbow to the outside of your right knee, keeping your spine long. Keep your knees side by side.
Continue to sit deep into your squat with your core engaged and keep the shoulders firm on your back.
Pull your chin slightly away from your chest and look up towards the ceiling.
Stay in this pose for 30 seconds or more, then release to Mountain Pose.
Repeat on the other side.
Variations: As you come into chair pose, exhale and then place the left hand on the floor next to the left foot. Inhale, rotate the torso to the right, bringing the right arm straight up overhead. Or, if it's too difficult, you can do the twist while in a sitting position.
Remember, yoga is not a quick weight-loss method. It can be a wonderful and relaxing long-term approach to losing weight and keeping it off.
