This asana is very effective for weight loss. It tones and strengthens the hamstrings, glutes, quads, thighs, calf muscles, and ankles. It also engages the lower back, abdomen, chest, and diaphragm, instilling spinal flexibility, and agility.
Asanas
Standing Half Forward Bend (Ardha Uttanasana)
This asana lengthens the spine making it more strong and flexible. It works on the core muscles, hamstrings, glutes, thighs, calves, ankles, and the neck muscles as well. It can be used as an effective warm-up exercise to stretch the spine, hamstrings, glutes, thighs, and calf muscles.
Standing Forward Bend (Uttanasana)
This asana is beneficial for reducing stress, anxiety, and mental agitation. It instills a sense of calm and coolness into the system. Uttanasana tones and strengthens the hamstrings, calves, glutes, and of course, the spine.
Staff Pose (Dandasana)
This is primarily an alignment pose which is practiced before a number of seated asanas as a foundational pose to start from. Dandasana (Daṇḍāsana) is usually followed by some kind of a forward bend, but not always so.
Sphinx Pose (Salamba Bhujangasana)
Salamba Bhujangasana or the Sphinx Pose is a classic backbend that opens up the chest and expands the lungs while simultaneously stimulating the lower back area. Since this pose is done on the forearms instead of the palms, it’s suitable for even those with wrist injuries or carpal tunnel syndrome.