Trim Your Middle with these Yoga Moves

Few things look as good as a toned, taut abdomen. What does it take to get it?Getting flat abs takes time and effort, but the results leave you feeling and looking great. Try these yoga moves to whittle your midsection:

1. Tree Pose

How about you make like a tree... and stay right there? Start with both feet planted firmly on the ground, place your palms together in front of you in a prayer-like position and gently raise until your closed palms are reaching above your head, arms hitting just aside your ears. Now bend one of your knees outward, and depending on your level of flexibility, move the foot of your bent leg up into your inner thigh. The higher your foot goes up your opposite leg, the more challenging this pose is. Tighten your core, belly-button to the spine. Breathe in and exhale for 10 slow counts, switch sides, and repeat.

2. Warrior Pose

There's no pose more invigorating than warrior pose. Start with your right foot at 90 degrees as the other leg is upright and stretching backward, both heels on the floor, the front toes pointing forward and the back toes pointing to the side. Relax your neck and shoulders, and outstretch your arms, right arm in front of you, left foot back, and hold for 10 breaths. Return to center. Switch sides, and repeat.

3. Happy Baby Twist

The happy baby pose is normally one of relaxation, but when you add a subtle twist, you get your obliques (side-abs) engaged. Start with both feet outstretched and move your right hand to the opposite foot, and vice versa, ensuring that your abdominals are contracted and engaged. Twist your tummy taut, and don't forget to breathe! After 10 mindful breaths, switch sides, and repeat.

4. Single-Leg Stretch Back

Want to be sure that the abs you're working toward don't become too bulky for your taste? Then you have to stretch it out. Let the muscle fibers tear, and lengthen instead of contracting to the point of building bulk. Start with one foot in front of you at a 90 degree angle, and the other outstretched behind. Take both arms upward, directly above your head, and slightly bend at the core. be mindful not to engage or strain the lower back. Hold for 10 breaths. Return to Center. Switch sides, and repeat.

That's enough to get you started. You can repeat this cycle for as little as 8 minutes, or as long as you'd like, all in the name of a stronger midsection and peace of mind.