The Dad Bod Trend Makes Its Way Into Yoga Asanas

July 23, 2015

Back in May came the Dad Bod trend, screaming right through the bylanes of Hollywood, as actors like Jason Segel, Leonardo DiCaprio, and Seth Rogen were revered for their very average body types that are commonplace among daddies.

If you remember, even back then we supported the trend and needles to say, it sparked many off-shoots of its own. With that in mind, we explore its place in yoga and how, just by doing certain asanas from the practice, you can get your regular Joe body shape while still being a healthy weight and not spending hours at the gym:

Garudasana, Or Eagle Pose
Benefits: Great for the health of male reproductive organs, the asana improves balance and concentration, and stretches the legs, thighs, hips, and shoulders.
Tip: Start with two reps everyday.

Step 1: Keep your feet together, heels and toes touching. Bring your arms up over your head, palms together.
Step 2: Swing your right arm underneath your left arm, crossing and wringing the arms tightly.
Step 3: Now, aim to bring your palms together. If that is difficult, try to grab any finger. If you are very tight in the shoulder area, grab your shoulders.
Step 4: If you have grabbed a finger or managed to bring your palms together, pull your elbows downwards. Try to get your fingers below your nose.
Step 5: Now, sit your hips down low as if sitting in a chair. Arch your upper body back. Maintain weight in the heels of your feet.
Step 6: Lift your right leg up, and cross it up and over your left leg. Wind it tight.
Step 7: Attempt to have the toes touch your calf muscle, so all five toes are visible from the front view. Focus on keeping your spine erect and not hunch over. Keep your abs tight. If you find your foot slipping away from the calf muscle, try siting your hips down more. If you are having a hard time keeping your balance, make sure you are not standing and sit down even lower.
Step 8: Hold the pose for five breaths and gently exit. Repeat on the left side.

Supta-Padangusthasana, Or Reclining Hand to Big-Toe Pose
Benefits: Stimulates the prostate gland and strengthens the digestive system.
Tip: Listen to your body and be patient. It may seem difficult at first, but with practice, the body and lower back will loosen and your flexibility will increase.

Step 1: Lie down flat on your back. Relax your left leg and gently bend your right knee up toward your chest.
Step 2: Now, slowly extend the leg straight up to the ceiling, creating a 90 degree angle. If you find your left calf muscles lifting up off the floor keep, the left foot active by flexing the foot.
Step 3: Grab the right big toe with your thumb, index and middle finger (keep your foot flexed). Use a strap or belt to assist you, if you can’t reach the big toe. Grab high up on the strap. Be sure to keep your shoulders relaxed and broadened, flat on the floor.
Step 4: Now, keep your gaze on the big toe and attempt to pull in your foot as close to your head as your body comfortably allows.
Step 5: Hold for five breaths, then gently lower the leg and repeat on the other side.

The beauty is in the simplicity and minimal effort of this workout routine. After all, you aren’t aiming to be Channing Tatum (your stripper body days are over!); you’re looking to revel and embrace the man pooch set in a dignified and respectably aesthetic framework. Go daddy, go!

PS: Here’s your one-stop guide to Yoga Asanas For Weight Loss.
Also, head here to catch the latest in Fitness Trends.