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Practicing yoga can contribute to the reduction of belly fat by enhancing metabolic function, fortifying core muscles, and alleviating stress, all of which are significant factors in abdominal fat accumulation. Specific yoga poses activate the core muscles, elevate heart rates, and improve digestive health, thereby facilitating more effective fat burning. Furthermore, yoga plays a role in balancing cortisol levels, a hormone associated with the storage of belly fat. Engaging in yoga during the afternoon can be particularly beneficial as the body tends to be more flexible, digestive processes are in motion, and energy levels are higher, which makes it easier to perform active poses aimed at targeting belly fat. Continue reading for a selection of asanas you can practice in the afternoon to help reduce belly fat.

Afternoon yoga poses to aid in belly fat reduction

Bhujangasana

This pose stretches the abdomen while enhancing digestion and metabolic rate.

- Begin by lying flat on your stomach with your face down.
- Position your palms at your sides and gradually lift your upper body off the ground.
- At this stage, only your palms and lower body should be in contact with the floor.
- Hold this stance for 30 seconds before lowering back down.
- Repeat this sequence 3 to 4 times each day.

Dhanurasana

This posture activates the abdominal muscles, supports digestion, and strengthens the core.

- Lie flat on your stomach, arms beside you, and legs extended straight.
- Bend your knees and try to bring your heels as close to your backside as possible.
- With your rear arms, gently grasp your ankles.
- Ensure your hips and knees are aligned closely.
- Lift your thighs slightly off the ground while pulling your feet toward your body.
- Simultaneously raise your head and chest off the floor.
- Keep your pelvis flat against the ground.
- Breathe deeply and hold for 4 to 5 breaths.
- If you find it difficult to breathe, maintain a gentle stretch that feels comfortable; some may opt to skip this pose.

Paschimottanasana

This asana aids in digestion, tones the abdominal muscles, and can help in reducing belly fat.

- Sit upright with your legs extended straight in front of you.
- The soles of your feet should be facing forward during this position.
- Gradually bend your torso toward your legs as far as you comfortably can.
- You may hold onto your feet with your hands to help you reach further.
- In this pose, your stomach and chest should ideally touch your thighs.
- You can either have your face directed forward or downward toward your legs, whichever is more comfortable.
- Hold this position for 10 to 20 seconds, then slowly sit back up.
- Feel free to repeat this as many times as you like, depending on your comfort level.

Setu Bandhasana

This pose fortifies the core, aids in digestion, and boosts metabolic activity.

- Begin by lying flat on your back with your knees bent and your feet planted firmly on the ground.
- At this stage, ensure that your legs are positioned hip-width apart.
- With your palms directed downward, place your hands alongside your body.
- Take a deep breath in, then slowly elevate your hips off the ground, curling your spine upward.
- Press your feet firmly into the floor.
- To lift your hips higher, contract your glutes.
- After maintaining this pose for 4 to 8 breaths, gently lower yourself back to the starting position.

Ustrasana

This posture stretches the abdominal area, supports digestion, and helps mitigate stress-related fat around the belly.

- Begin seated on your calves and knees, ensuring your thighs are not in contact with your calves.
- Gradually bring your hands down to your ankles.
- Ensure your face is directed upwards towards the ceiling at this point.
- Maintain this pose for 10 to 20 seconds, repeating it for a total duration of 3 to 5 minutes.

Practicing these asanas during the afternoon can effectively address belly fat by enhancing digestion, activating the core, and improving metabolism overall. For optimal results, incorporate a consistent yoga practice with a nutritious diet.