The next time you feel a binge coming on, try this flowing yoga routine, developed by Laura Madden, a yoga instructor and fitness director of the Scottsdale Resort and Athletic Club in Arizona. Hold each pose for 3 to 5 breaths, unless otherwise directed.
- Warrior II Photo by Terry Doyle Stand tall with feet together. Take a large step to right. Bend right knee into a lunge, right knee over ankle and toes pointing to right; point left foot forward. Extend arms out to sides.
- Side Reach Photo by Terry Doyle From Warrior II, rest right forearm on thigh and reach left arm overhead, lengthening spine.
- Plank Photo by Terry Doyle From Side Reach, place hands on floor, one on either side of right foot. Move right foot back next to left one. Hands should be directly beneath shoulders; body in a straight line from head to heels.
- Downward-facing Dog Photo by Terry Doyle From Plank, reach hips upward, bending body into an upside-down V. Press heels toward floor.
- Cobra Photo by Terry Doyle From Downward-Facing Dog, bend knees and lower body to floor. With hands under shoulders, lift chest off floor. Keep shoulders down. Press palms, hips, and tops of feet into floor. Repeat Moves 1 through 5:From Cobra, press up onto knees, then feet. Roll up one vertebra at a time so head comes up last as you stand. Repeat series, lunging to left for Moves 1 and 2. Once you’ve completed all 5 moves, Finish with moves 6 and 7.
- Tree Pose Photo by Terry Doyle Place left foot against right calf or inner thigh, not knee. Lift rib cage to elongate spine, and bring hands to prayer position. Hold, then repeat with opposite leg.
- Goddess Pose Photo by Terry Doyle Lie with soles of feet together and as close to hips as comfortably possible, stretching inner thighs. If this is too intense, straighten legs. Breathe deeply in this pose for 2 to 5 minutes. MORE: The 10-Minute Gentle Yoga Routine For Serious Weight Loss