Frequent eating of carbohydrates such as sweets and biscuits, affect the part of the brain controlling impulse, leading to loss of self control and a subsequent craving for unhealthy, high-calorie foods.
There are few basic factors responsible for food craving, namely, hormonal Imbalance, yo-yo dieting, low fat diet, yeast infection and adrenal fatigue.
Hormonal imbalance or weak digestion can lead to low serotonin, feel good hormone. Sugars and simple carbohydrates release a short burst of serotonin — we feel good for a moment, but soon return to our low-serotonin state craving for more sugar and simple carbohydrates.
Practicing yoga and meditation regularly you can check and control mindless munching. These yoga asanas will help draw your attention away from cravings and back in touch with your breath, and in tune with your body. Yoga trains and reprograms the mind so it can come back to a calm and neutral state free of anxieties and cravings.
Balasana (Child’s Pose)
- Kneel on the floor, and then sit directly onto your heels.
- Shift your knees until they are a little more than hip-width apart.
- Bend forward at the hip; bring your chest to rest between your thighs.
- Keep your buttocks in contact with your heels and rest your forehead on the floor. If this is uncomfortable, rest your forehead on a cushion or folded blanket-make sure it is high enough for you to be comfortable.
- Stretch your arms out in front of you on either side of your head. Lengthen the muscles as far as you can, really give a good stretch! Then slide your arms back to your sides, palms up and relax.
- Remain in this pose for as long as possible. Breathe deeply and relax into the posture.
Parivrtta Janu Sirsasana (Revolved Head-to-Knee Pose)
- From a seated position extend the right leg out 45 degrees towards the corner of the room. Bring the left foot in close to the hips.
- Extend the right arm over the right leg with the right palm facing up.
- Inhale reach the left fingers up towards the ceiling, lifting out of the hips.
- Exhale and arch over to the right, reaching the left fingers towards the right foot, bringing the left arm directly over the left ear.
- Keep the left shoulder pressing back, allowing the chest to stay open and facing forward. Keep the chin off the chest, looking forward or up at the ceiling.
Breathe and hold for 2-6 breaths. - To release: inhale and reach the left fingers up towards the ceiling, exhale release the arm down.
- Repeat on other side.
Practicing Meditation regularly can help connect to your inner self and gain charge of your body. When trying to overcome a sugar eating habit, take time out to sit quietly or go for a walk alone and try to clear your mind. Focus on the beauty or scenery around you. Freeing the mind of chatter and constant worry will relax you. Sit down in Padma-asana with arms raised in a V-shape. Relax your shoulders down your back and reach out through your fingertips. Spend a few minutes in this position and you’ll be able to conquer your sugar craving with ease.
Next time you’re find yourself in front of the fridge, craving, stop and take a few minutes to slow down both your body and your mind.
