2 weeks Ago By uaenews247
Ras Al Khaimah, April 24, 2025 – As part of its ongoing RAK Biggest Weight Loss Challenge 2025 , RAK Hospital hosted another compelling session under the Obefit Webinar Series, this time spotlighting the powerful role of Yoga in managing obesity. The session titled “Yoga for Managing Obesity” was led by Ms. Zareena Kennedy Ali, Assistant Professor at the University of Stirling, Ras Al Khaimah, and a trained Yogacharya in Ashtanga Yoga – a traditional Indian school integrating the eight limbs of yogic philosophy into daily life.
Ms Zareena Kennedy Ali, Ashtanga Yoga Specialist Highlighting the multidimensional nature of obesity, Ms. Zareena emphasized that excess weight isn’t just the result of poor diet and lack of exercise. “Obesity is multifactorial,” she said.
“Genetics, hormonal imbalances, psychological eating habits, and environmental factors all contribute. This makes Yoga’s holistic, mind-body-spirit approach particularly effective in tackling the issue.” Throughout the webinar, Zareena elaborated on the classical Ashtanga Yoga system, detailing its eight foundational principles: morality and ethics, self-discipline, physical movement, breath control, moderation, concentration, meditation, and enlightenment.
These elements, she explained, come together to create a sustainable and transformative approach to health and wellbeing. A highlight of the session was Zareena’s deep dive into the Yogic Chakra system and its correlation with the endocrine glands. She explained how each chakra—subtle energy centers within the body—aligns with internal organs and hormonal functions, making yoga uniquely powerful in restoring systemic balance.
For instance, the Manipura Chakra corresponds with metabolism-regulating glands such as the pancreas and adrenals, making it especially relevant in managing obesity and diabetes. The practical portion of the webinar introduced attendees to a curated set of beginner-friendly asanas (yoga postures) including: Ardhalasana (Leg Raises) – strengthens the abdomen and reproductive system Sarbhangasana (Shoulder Stand) – enhances thyroid function and brain health Bhujangasana (Cobra Pose) – benefits the spine, heart, and abdominal organs Dhanurasana (Bow Pose) – tones the spine and improves digestion Paschimattasana (Seated Forward Bend) – aids in kidney and adrenal health Shavasana (Corpse Pose) – promotes relaxation and stress relief Zareena also recommended Suryanamaskar (Sun Salutation) , a sequence of 12 dynamic poses, as a complete workout. “Just 10 rounds of Sun Salutations can burn up to 150 calories, equivalent to a brisk 30-minute walk,” she noted, positioning it as an effective cardio alternative for those seeking weight loss.
The session also included a guided introduction to Anulom Vilom Pranayama (alternate nostril breathing), which detoxifies the blood, enhances lung capacity, and supports mental calmness. Zareena closed the session with an inspiring personal anecdote—she overcame postpartum weight gain of 20 kg after each of her two pregnancies through consistent yoga practice. “Yoga is not about punishment or pushing your limits.
It’s a joyful, inclusive path to lasting wellness, available to everyone, regardless of age or fitness level.” For more information on the RAK Biggest Weight Loss Challenge 2025 and to know the upcoming webinar schedule, visit https://www.rakweightlosschallenge.
com/webinar-sched.php Related.
