Yoga for weight loss

Although not a means to achieve rapid weight loss — for that, cardio exercises such as running are a better choice — yoga can be a weight loss solution for the patient athlete who believes connecting the mind and body will help shed the pounds.

Holts, who teaches yoga nearly every night, says the ancient meditation practice has taught her about her diet.

"Yoga really relaxed and calmed me down. It really got me thinking about food and my approach to food. It showed me that I should be aware of how I am after I eat."

Stephanie Vincec, the owner of Blue Bamboo Yoga, says the "yoga approach" to losing weight is not a conventional one.

"It takes a bit more time to establish that mind-body connection. Instead of calorie counting, you're listening to yourself," she said. "Learning about what foods make you crave if you’re overeating because it's an emotional thing. You'll learn to really know when you're satisfied and not eat more."