The winter season is setting in, and it’s officially the time when it becomes difficult to get up in the mornings and the winter chill could make it harder for you to go for that morning jog or workout session. While different seasons bring with them different benefits, finding the inspiration to get out of the bed and workout during the winters can be challenging. However, as difficult as that can be, exercising during the winters can help burn more calories than the summer time! Experts also say that with the winter temperatures, endurance also increases, which can make workouts all the more effective. Therefore, while workouts are a priority, be it summer or winter, if you are on the mission to lose weight and do not want to add extra kilos this winter, here are some ways shared by yoga expert Grand Master Akshar to make your fitness zest stronger during the winter season:

Walking/ Running/ Jogging: Start your exercise routine with a brisk walk or maybe you could take a jog or run around your neighbourhood block. These are cardiovascular activities that pump up your heart rate and get you ready both mentally and physically for your upcoming workout session.

Stretching: After your jog or run make sure that you spend a few minutes on stretching. Experts recommend that you stretch before and after your workout as this readies your muscles keep them safe from injury and also effectively improves your chance of getting leaner and more toned.


Surya Namaskar: In yoga, Surya Namaskar also known as the sun salutation is considered to be a complete body workout. The Surya Namaskar is comprised of eight different postures that are sequenced in a 12 step flow. It starts from the right side and needs to be completed on both sides for a complete cycle. If you are a beginner you can start with 3-5 cycles and gradually increase it to 11, 21 and so on. Practising this sequence early in the morning will boost vitamin D in your body d and bring many physical as well as mental health benefits.

Energy breathing: Pranayama is a breathing exercise that can be performed to gain many health benefits for both mind and body. During winter techniques such as Kapalbhati Pranayama and Khand Pranayama are suggested for you.

Meditation techniques: There are many meditation techniques that you can practice regularly such as Sthiti Dhyan, Swaas Dhyan, Aarambh Dhyan etc. Here is a simple and powerful meditation technique to build positivity.

Prarthana Dhyan (Prayerful Meditation)

Formation

1. Sit down in any comfortable posture

2. Join your palms in front of your chest to form Pranam Mudra

3. Straighten your back and close your eyes

4. Frame and repeat positive affirmations aloud or silently

Relaxation: End your workout session with complete mind-body relaxation in the form of Anandasana. Relaxing the body is as important as exercising as this gives your body the chance to rest, recover and recoup.

Formation of the Posture:

1. Lie down in a prone position on a comfortable surface or on your yoga mat.

2. Close your eyes.

3. Let your legs relax completely and place them at a distance that is comfortably apart.

4. Let your ankles drop, and keep your toes are facing sideward.

5. Place your arms alongside your body and slightly apart. Make sure your palms are lying open to the sky and facing upwards.

6. Starting from your toes, bring your attention to every area of your body. Use deep breaths to lull your body into a deep state of relaxation.

7. Maintain awareness so you do not fall asleep in the process.

8. To recover from the posture, gently roll to one side (right) with your eyes closed. Slowly push the floor to come 9. up and sit in Sukhasana.

Anandasana can be done after you complete your physical practice, and when you are tired, it helps to completely relax your body. This pose requires you to concentrate, and focus on your breath. When you are in this posture, try to take deeper and faster breaths.

(With inputs from IANS)