Yoga is a safe and wonderful form of exercise that relaxes the mind and spirit. It is great for stretching out tired muscles and gaining flexibility. However, yoga can do much more for your body than simply stretching. It can also help you lose belly fat - using yoga asanas for a flat stomach tips are listed below.

Standing side stretch - This is an easy stretch that works on the obliques, or the sides of your abdomen. This stretch will help you get rid of any love handles you may have. Stand straight with good posture and feet shoulder width apart. In the starting position, your arms should be down at your sides. Lift one arm over your head and bend at the waist as far as possible. You should feel a good stretch in your side. Return to the center and repeat with the opposite arm.

Yoga crunches - These are inverted crunches and easier on your back than a typical abdominal crunch. Lay on your back with your legs up in the air so your body makes a 90 degree angle. Your hands should be behind your head to support your neck. Using your stomach muscles only, raise your legs toward the ceiling. Be sure to maintain control and do the exercise slowly. If you perform the exercise too quickly, you will be using momentum instead of your stomach muscles.

Bridge pose - The bridge pose is a great pose to burn belly fat. However, it is not recommended for those that have lower back or shoulder problems. Lay on your back with your knees bent and your arms down at your sides. Your feet should be about a foot apart. Leaving your shoulders, head, and feet on the floor, lift your hips toward the ceiling. Hold for approximately 10 seconds and bring your hips back down to the floor. The motion should be very controlled both on the way up and on the way back down.

Locust pose - Lay flat on your stomach with your arms at your sides. Lift your arms, check, head, and legs off the floor at the same time and hold for five seconds before lowering your entire body back to the floor. This asana can be slightly modified with your arms extended out in front of you rather than at our sides. This is a slightly easier version of the pose.