How to Lose Weight by Doing Yoga?

Introduction

In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the various ways in which yoga can contribute to effective and sustainable weight loss, debunk common misconceptions, and provide practical insights for incorporating yoga into your weight loss journey.

Understanding Yoga and Its Impact on Weight Loss

Yoga, a venerable practice with roots dating back thousands of years to ancient India, embodies a comprehensive blend of physical, mental, and spiritual disciplines. This holistic approach encompasses a myriad of techniques, including asanas (physical postures), pranayama (breath control), meditation, and mindfulness. While yoga may not immediately conjure images of high-intensity cardio workouts commonly associated with weight loss, its multifaceted nature offers a unique synergy of physical challenges and mental engagement that can profoundly influence weight management in a variety of ways.

2.1 Boosting Metabolism: The intricate web of yoga practices possesses the power to invigorate the body’s internal mechanisms, including the thyroid gland – a pivotal player in regulating metabolism. Certain yoga techniques, such as Surya Namaskar (Sun Salutation) and Kapalbhati Pranayama (the breath of fire), can exert a remarkable impact on metabolic functionality and calorie expenditure. By stimulating the thyroid gland, yoga aids in optimizing metabolic rates, promoting efficient digestion, and facilitating the conversion of food into energy. This, in turn, contributes to a heightened calorie-burning potential, fostering an environment conducive to sustainable weight loss.

2.2 Building Lean Muscle Mass: The elegant symphony of yoga postures orchestrates a symmetrical engagement of diverse muscle groups throughout the body. Each asana requires a delicate balance of strength, flexibility, and alignment, resulting in a harmonious development of lean muscle mass. The cultivation of lean muscle mass is pivotal in the journey towards weight loss due to its intrinsic role in elevating the basal metabolic rate. As these lean muscles proliferate, they generate a constant demand for energy, even during periods of rest. Consequently, the body becomes akin to a calorie-burning furnace, aiding weight loss efforts by expending more calories over time.

2.3 Mindful Eating: The essence of mindfulness permeates the very fabric of yoga practice, guiding individuals towards heightened self-awareness and conscious living. This profound mindfulness extends to the realm of eating habits, prompting individuals to engage in a more deliberate and attentive relationship with food. The act of mindful eating involves savoring each bite, immersing oneself in the textures and flavors, and cultivating a profound connection with the act of nourishment. By cultivating this mindful approach, individuals are better equipped to recognize true hunger cues, differentiate between physical and emotional cravings, and develop a keen sense of portion control. The result is a reduction in overeating and an enhanced capacity to make informed dietary choices that align with weight loss goals.

2.4 Stress Reduction: In the intricate tapestry of modern life, chronic stress often weaves its threads into our daily experiences. This stress, when left unchecked, can substantially impede weight loss efforts. Yoga, however, emerges as a formidable ally in the battle against stress-induced weight gain. The practice’s emphasis on relaxation, deep breathing, and mindfulness collectively orchestrates a symphony that harmonizes the body’s stress response. By alleviating chronic stress and modulating stress hormones like cortisol, yoga contributes to a healthier hormonal balance, mitigating one of the primary culprits behind weight gain. Through its calming and centering effects, yoga helps to create an environment within the body that is conducive to achieving and maintaining a healthier weight.

Choosing the Right Type of Yoga for Effective Weight Loss

Yoga, with its diverse array of styles and practices, presents a versatile canvas upon which individuals can paint their journey towards weight loss. While the holistic nature of yoga encompasses spiritual, mental, and physical dimensions, certain styles are particularly effective in harnessing the body’s innate potential for shedding excess pounds. Not all yoga styles are created equal in this endeavor; some styles infuse vigor and dynamism, while others prioritize relaxation and flexibility. In this exploration, we will delve into the world of yoga styles that are tailor-made to ignite the flames of weight loss, offering individuals an array of paths to embark upon.

Vinyasa Yoga: The Dance of Dynamic Sequences

Vinyasa Yoga, often described as a graceful dance that synchronizes breath with movement, emerges as a dynamic and effective approach to weight loss. This style involves fluidly transitioning from one posture to another, creating a rhythmic flow that elevates the heart rate and induces a cardio-like workout. The sequences are meticulously designed to engage multiple muscle groups, sculpting the body while igniting the furnace of calorie burning. Each movement is linked harmoniously to the breath, fostering a sense of mindfulness and presence that enhances the mind-body connection. As practitioners glide through sun salutations, invigorating standing poses, and energizing backbends, they embark on a journey that not only challenges their physical stamina but also contributes to significant calorie expenditure, making Vinyasa Yoga an essential component of a weight loss-focused yoga routine.

Power Yoga: Igniting the Fire Within

As an evolved variation of Vinyasa, Power Yoga raises the intensity bar by fusing strength-building movements with accelerated sequences. The result is a potent concoction that turbocharges calorie burning and amplifies muscle engagement. Power Yoga is characterized by its dynamic flow, punctuated by challenging poses that demand both physical prowess and mental focus. This style is particularly adept at building lean muscle mass, a fundamental catalyst for sustainable weight loss. The integration of strength elements transforms Power Yoga into a formidable workout that not only targets weight reduction but also enhances overall muscular endurance. By combining the fluidity of Vinyasa with the grit of strength training, Power Yoga establishes itself as an invigorating choice for those seeking an empowering pathway to weight loss.

Ashtanga Yoga: The Symphony of Endurance

For those with a penchant for structure and discipline, Ashtanga Yoga unfurls as a compelling option in the realm of weight loss. Renowned for its physically demanding series of postures, Ashtanga Yoga embarks on a journey of cultivating lean muscle mass and enhancing cardiovascular fitness. The practice consists of a set sequence of postures, each executed with precise alignment and synchronized breath. This meticulous approach not only promotes muscle toning and strengthening but also creates a cardiovascular challenge that is conducive to burning calories. By adhering to the rhythmic cadence of Ashtanga, practitioners embark on a transformational odyssey that forges a resilient physique while fostering a deeper connection between body and breath. Ashtanga Yoga, with its emphasis on sustained effort and progressive mastery, proves to be a robust ally in the pursuit of weight loss.

Hot Yoga: Igniting the Calorie-Burning Furnace

Hot Yoga, encompassing variations such as Bikram or Hot Vinyasa, introduces an element of intensity through the use of a heated environment. Practiced in a room maintained at elevated temperatures, Hot Yoga amplifies the challenge by inducing profuse sweating and facilitating detoxification. The combination of heat and dynamic postures elevates the cardiovascular demands of the practice, leading to increased calorie expenditure. As practitioners move through the sequences in the heat, the body’s metabolic rate rises, akin to the effects of a cardiovascular workout. Additionally, the heightened sweat production not only aids in detoxifying the body but also contributes to weight loss through fluid loss. Hot Yoga’s unique blend of heat, movement, and mindfulness crafts an environment that promotes accelerated calorie burning, making it a notable contender in the realm of weight loss-focused yoga styles.

Designing a Strategic Yoga Practice for Effective Weight Loss

The practice of yoga, with its intricate fusion of physical postures, breath control, and mindfulness, offers a holistic approach to weight loss that extends far beyond conventional methods. While selecting an appropriate yoga style lays the foundation for your journey, it is the thoughtful design and consistent execution of your practice that will propel you towards your weight loss goals. In this exploration, we delve into the art of crafting a strategic yoga practice, considering various facets that contribute to a successful weight loss journey.

Frequency: The Backbone of Consistency

The adage “consistency is key” resounds with undeniable truth when it comes to achieving weight loss goals through yoga. Regularity is the cornerstone upon which progress is built. To maximize the benefits of your practice, aim for a consistent routine that encompasses yoga sessions at least 3-4 times a week. This frequency allows your body to adapt, respond, and transform gradually over time. Whether you engage in dynamic Vinyasa sequences, invigorating Power Yoga, or the structured sequences of Ashtanga, the rhythm of regular practice helps to optimize metabolic processes, enhance muscle tone, and foster a deeper connection between mind and body.

Duration: Nurturing Endurance and Stamina

When crafting your yoga practice, it’s essential to strike a balance between duration and intensity. Begin your journey with sessions lasting between 30-60 minutes, offering a comprehensive workout that engages various muscle groups while maintaining a sustainable level of exertion. As you embark on this transformative voyage, listen keenly to your body’s cues. Gradually increase the duration of your sessions as your strength and stamina evolve. By nurturing your endurance over time, you allow your body to progressively acclimate to the demands of your practice, paving the way for effective weight loss while minimizing the risk of overexertion.

Intensity: The Sweet Spot of Challenge

Selecting an appropriate intensity level for your yoga practice is paramount to a safe and effective weight loss journey. While it is tempting to dive headlong into advanced poses, it is imperative to strike a harmonious balance between challenge and restraint. Choose a practice that challenges you without causing undue strain. As you flow through the sequences, focus on engaging your muscles, maintaining proper alignment, and connecting deeply with your breath. Gradually progress as you become more attuned to the postures and your body’s response. This approach not only prevents injury but also fosters a sustainable practice that aligns with your weight loss goals.

Variety: A Multifaceted Approach

Variety serves as a potent catalyst in any effective weight loss strategy. Your yoga practice should be no exception. To engage different muscle groups and prevent plateaus, infuse your routine with a diverse array of postures. Blend dynamic, flowing sequences with strength-building poses to create a multifaceted practice that addresses various aspects of physical fitness. Incorporating a range of asanas not only promotes muscle balance and tone but also ensures that your body remains responsive to the challenges posed by your practice. This strategic diversity not only enhances the effectiveness of your practice but also keeps it engaging and invigorating.

Gradual Progression: A Journey of Achievable Milestones

The path to weight loss through yoga is a journey of gradual progression, marked by a series of achievable milestones. Set realistic goals that reflect your current fitness level and gradually build upon them. As you become more comfortable with your practice, challenge yourself with more advanced poses and longer sessions. The incremental nature of your progression not only minimizes the risk of burnout but also fosters a sense of accomplishment and empowerment. Embrace each milestone as a testament to your dedication and perseverance, and let them serve as beacons guiding you towards your ultimate weight loss aspirations.

Unlocking Weight Loss Potential: Yoga Poses for Transformative Results

Yoga, a timeless practice that intertwines physical postures, mindful breathing, and inner serenity, possesses an unparalleled ability to sculpt not only the body but also the mind. In the realm of weight loss, yoga emerges as a profound ally, offering an array of poses that engage muscles, stoke metabolism, and enhance flexibility. These poses, carefully curated to optimize weight loss benefits, stand as pillars within the architecture of your transformative yoga journey. In this exploration, we delve into the power of these yoga poses, unveiling their potential to ignite the flames of weight loss and elevate your well-being.

Plank Pose: Unveiling Core Strength and Balance

At the heart of an effective weight loss-focused yoga practice lies the Plank Pose, a foundational posture that instills strength, stability, and balance. As you transition into the Plank Pose, your core muscles are ignited, fostering a deep engagement that strengthens not only the abdominals but also the arms and legs. This activation of major muscle groups triggers a surge in calorie burning, effectively contributing to your weight loss aspirations. Furthermore, Plank Pose serves as a masterful sculptor of posture, aligning the spine and encouraging a heightened sense of body awareness. The steady hold of Plank Pose nurtures endurance, promoting a robust core that is vital for dynamic movement and overall well-being.

Warrior Poses: Embodying Strength, Endurance, and Flexibility

The triumvirate of Warrior Poses – Warrior I, Warrior II, and Warrior III – stands as a testament to the transformative potential of yoga in the realm of weight loss. These poses, steeped in symbolism and strength, engage multiple muscle groups, fostering holistic development that aligns with your goals. Warrior I propels the body into a majestic stance that simultaneously stretches and strengthens the legs, enhancing balance and grounding. Warrior II, with its graceful outstretched arms and resolute stance, amplifies endurance while engaging the hips and core. The crown jewel, Warrior III, introduces an element of balance and integration, targeting the core, hamstrings, and back muscles while demanding unwavering focus. This trio of poses collectively nurtures strength, flexibility, and balance, contributing to a body that is primed for weight loss.

Bridge Pose: Forging a Strong Lower Body Foundation

As you bridge the gap between the physical and the metaphysical, Bridge Pose emerges as a compelling contributor to your weight loss odyssey. This pose, characterized by its elegant arch and uplifted hips, serves as a sculptor of the lower body. As you lift your hips, the glutes and hamstrings are activated, bestowing them with renewed strength and endurance. This engagement of major muscle groups translates into increased calorie expenditure, bolstering your weight loss efforts. Bridge Pose not only empowers the lower body but also nurtures openness in the chest and shoulders, fostering an expansive breath and contributing to an overall sense of well-being. As you hold this pose, envision yourself forging a foundation of strength and resilience, a foundation that propels you towards your weight loss aspirations.

Boat Pose: Navigating the Waters of Core Engagement

In the sea of weight loss-focused yoga poses, Boat Pose stands as a beacon of core engagement and vitality. This posture, reminiscent of a sleek vessel gliding through the waters, calls upon the core muscles to assume the reins of stability. As you lift your legs and torso, the core engages with unwavering strength, promoting toning and sculpting that aligns with your weight loss goals. This engagement of the core not only contributes to physical transformation but also bolsters the digestive system, fostering efficient metabolism and digestion. Boat Pose, with its potent fusion of strength and digestion-enhancing effects, offers a powerful tool in your quest for weight loss, inviting you to navigate the currents of transformation with grace and fortitude.

Twisting Poses: The Dance of Digestive Vitality

Within the realm of weight loss-focused yoga, twisting poses emerge as champions of digestive vitality and spinal flexibility. The Half Lord of the Fishes Pose, an exemplar of twisting prowess, stimulates internal organs and encourages the gentle wringing out of toxins, supporting efficient digestion and metabolism. As you engage in twisting poses, the spinal column is imbued with renewed flexibility, fostering a sense of liberation and openness that mirrors the transformation you seek. The rhythmic dance of twisting poses not only enhances the body’s ability to metabolize but also nurtures a sense of harmony between body and breath. As you embark on this journey of twists and turns, envision yourself wringing out stagnant energy, making space for vibrant health, and advancing steadfastly towards your weight loss aspirations.

Harnessing the Breath: Pranayama Techniques as Catalysts for Weight Loss

The art of yoga, with its harmonious blend of physical postures, mental clarity, and spiritual depth, extends its influence beyond the confines of the mat. One of the most potent tools in yoga’s arsenal is the practice of pranayama, a series of yogic breathing techniques that unlock the transformative power of the breath. As you journey towards weight loss, the rhythmic dance of pranayama emerges as a dynamic force, enhancing oxygen supply, soothing the mind, and catalyzing metabolic regulation. In this exploration, we unveil the intricacies of pranayama techniques that stand as allies in your pursuit of weight loss, inviting you to embrace the profound potential of the breath.

Kapalbhati Pranayama: A Breath of Detoxification and Vitality

Kapalbhati Pranayama, often referred to as the “breath of fire,” emerges as a beacon of detoxification, rejuvenation, and enhanced digestion within the realm of weight loss-focused practices. This dynamic technique involves rapid, forceful exhalations followed by passive inhalations, creating a rhythmic cycle of breath that resembles the bellows of a forge. As you engage in Kapalbhati Pranayama, the diaphragm undergoes a vigorous contraction, leading to the expulsion of stale air and the purification of the respiratory system. This detoxification process invigorates the body, paving the way for enhanced oxygen supply to cells and vital organs.

The increased oxygen influx catalyzed by Kapalbhati Pranayama has a profound impact on metabolism. As cells receive an abundance of oxygen, their metabolic activity is heightened, promoting the efficient breakdown of nutrients and the subsequent conversion of food into energy. This metabolic surge, combined with the digestive prowess of Kapalbhati, contributes to weight loss by fostering a more effective calorie-burning mechanism.

Bhastrika Pranayama: Fanning the Flames of Metabolism

Like a bellows that fans the flames of a roaring fire, Bhastrika Pranayama emerges as a dynamic catalyst for heightened metabolic activity within the context of weight loss. This technique involves forceful inhalations and exhalations through the nose, fostering an accelerated and rhythmic pattern of breathing. As you engage in Bhastrika, the body experiences a surge in oxygen intake, infusing cells with vitality and energy. This influx of oxygen serves as a powerful stimulant for metabolism, initiating a cascade of biochemical reactions that promote efficient calorie burning and energy utilization.

Furthermore, Bhastrika Pranayama elevates the body’s basal metabolic rate, creating an environment in which calories are expended at an accelerated pace even during periods of rest. This metabolic acceleration, combined with the detoxifying effects of Bhastrika, establishes an optimal foundation for weight loss. By stoking the fires of metabolism, Bhastrika Pranayama plays a pivotal role in supporting your journey towards a leaner and more vibrant self.

Anulom Vilom Pranayama: Cultivating Balance and Clarity

Within the realm of weight loss-focused pranayama practices, Anulom Vilom Pranayama emerges as a beacon of equilibrium, stress reduction, and mental clarity. This technique, also known as alternate nostril breathing, involves the rhythmic manipulation of breath through each nostril, fostering a harmonious balance between the body’s energy channels. As you engage in Anulom Vilom, the breath flows in a deliberate pattern, inviting a sense of equilibrium and inner stillness. This balanced energy flow, in turn, contributes to stress reduction and emotional well-being.

The profound connection between stress and weight gain is well-established, with chronic stress contributing to hormonal imbalances that hinder weight loss. Anulom Vilom Pranayama, with its stress-reducing effects, addresses this crucial aspect of the weight loss equation. By cultivating a serene and balanced state of mind, this pranayama technique paves the way for better decision-making and food choices. The mental clarity fostered by Anulom Vilom empowers you to make conscious dietary decisions that align with your weight loss goals, ultimately contributing to a healthier relationship with food and a more effective weight loss journey.

The Mindful Path to Weight Loss: Nurturing Body and Soul Through Yoga

In the intricate tapestry of weight loss journeys, where diets and exercise regimens often take the spotlight, an often-overlooked gem gleams with transformative potential – mindfulness. The harmonious marriage of mindfulness, yoga, and weight loss stands as a beacon of holistic well-being, inviting individuals to embark on a transformative voyage that extends far beyond mere physical transformation. As the tendrils of yoga interweave with the threads of mindfulness, a profound connection emerges, offering a pathway towards mindful eating, enhanced portion control, and a more intuitive relationship with food. In this exploration, we traverse the terrain where mindfulness and yoga converge, unveiling their capacity to usher in a new paradigm of weight loss.

Practice Mindful Eating: The Symphony of Senses

Amidst the hustle and bustle of modern life, the act of eating often becomes a mechanical routine rather than a mindful experience. Mindful eating, a practice deeply rooted in yogic principles, encourages a return to the present moment, an immersive engagement with the textures, flavors, and sensations of each bite. As you embark on the journey of mindful eating, envision yourself as an artist of flavors, crafting a masterpiece with each morsel. Allow your senses to come alive as you savor the intricate dance of tastes that unfold on your palate.

By approaching meals with a mindful lens, you rekindle a profound connection with the act of nourishment. As the tapestry of mindful eating unfurls, you grant yourself permission to slow down, to savor the subtleties that often go unnoticed, and to cultivate a deeper appreciation for the sustenance that fuels your body. This practice not only enhances your sensory experience but also serves as a cornerstone for weight loss. By engaging with your meals on a deeper level, you naturally become attuned to your body’s cues, fostering a heightened awareness of hunger and fullness that translates into improved portion control.

Avoid Distractions: Nurturing Presence at the Table

In an age characterized by constant connectivity and digital engagement, mealtimes often become opportunities for multitasking, where screens replace mindful interaction with food. The art of avoiding distractions during meals emerges as a pivotal facet of cultivating mindfulness in eating. When you sit down to dine, make a conscious decision to minimize external influences that divert your attention away from the present moment. Power down electronic devices and create a sacred space at the table where your focus is solely on the nourishment before you.

By stripping away distractions, you forge a deeper connection with your food and the act of eating. Each bite becomes a symphony of sensations, a moment of respite in a world of constant motion. This mindful dedication to the experience of eating not only enriches your relationship with food but also promotes a sense of inner calm and tranquility. As you embrace this practice, you nurture an environment where mindfulness and yoga converge, infusing your meals with intention, presence, and gratitude.

Listen to Your Body: Honoring Hunger and Fullness

The intricate wisdom of the body, with its innate ability to communicate its needs, lies at the heart of mindful eating within the context of weight loss. Tuning in to the body’s hunger and fullness cues becomes a sacred ritual, a dance of intuition and nourishment guided by the principles of yoga. As you sit down to a meal, close your eyes for a moment and connect with your body. Listen to the gentle whispers it offers – the soft murmur of hunger or the subtle sigh of satisfaction.

In the realm of mindful eating, portion control takes on a new dimension. Rather than relying on external cues or predetermined measurements, you become attuned to the inner symphony of your body’s signals. You eat when hunger beckons, savoring each bite with intention, and you pause when a gentle sense of fullness emerges, refraining from overindulgence. This dance of honoring your body’s cues not only supports weight loss efforts but also fosters a harmonious relationship with food that transcends calorie counting and diet restrictions.

The Enduring Grace of Yoga: Nurturing Long-Term Weight Management

In the intricate dance of weight management, where fads often flare and fade, yoga emerges as a timeless companion, offering a pathway to not only weight loss but also enduring well-being. Beyond the ephemeral allure of quick fixes, yoga stands as a steadfast ally in the realm of long-term weight management. Its true potency lies not merely in shedding pounds but in nurturing a sustainable lifestyle that harmonizes body, mind, and spirit. Through the cultivation of a consistent yoga practice and the integration of its principles into your daily existence, you embark on a transformative journey that extends far beyond fleeting results. In this exploration, we unveil the profound synergy between yoga and long-term weight management, inviting you to embrace the enduring grace of this ancient practice.

Improved Body Awareness: Illuminating the Temple Within

Within the realm of long-term weight management, the jewel of improved body awareness glistens with transformative potential. Regular yoga practice serves as a gateway to this heightened awareness, fostering a profound connection between your physical vessel and your conscious mind. As you move through the intricate tapestry of asanas, each pose becomes a mirror that reflects the intricate nuances of your body’s sensations, strengths, and limitations.

This enhanced body awareness serves as a compass guiding you towards conscious choices that align with your health and fitness aspirations. You become attuned to the signals your body emits – the whispers of hunger, the murmur of fatigue, the dance of energy. By honing this sensitivity, you navigate the seas of nourishment with an intuitive compass, choosing foods that fuel your vitality rather than appeasing momentary cravings. Yoga, in its gentle embrace, empowers you to cultivate a relationship with your body that is rooted in respect, awareness, and profound self-care.

Stress Reduction: The Refuge of Serenity

In the modern landscape of constant connectivity and incessant demands, stress emerges as a formidable adversary in the battle for weight management. The practice of yoga, with its resplendent tapestry of postures, breathwork, and mindfulness, offers a sanctuary of serenity amidst the chaos. Yoga’s stress-reducing effects are well-documented, with each asana and each mindful breath serving as a balm that soothes the nervous system and quells the tempest of stress.

The profound connection between stress and weight gain is a well-established phenomenon. Stress-induced overeating, often driven by hormonal imbalances and emotional triggers, becomes a stumbling block in the journey towards long-term weight management. Yoga, with its inherent ability to foster a tranquil mind, dismantles this stumbling block by addressing the root of stress. By practicing yoga, you cultivate an inner oasis of calm, fortifying your emotional resilience and shielding yourself from the ravages of stress-induced overindulgence. As the storm clouds of stress dissipate, a clearer path towards sustained weight management unfolds.

Sustainable Lifestyle: Nurturing Wholeness Within

The heart of long-term weight management beats to the rhythm of sustainability, and yoga stands as a torchbearer for this enduring path. Yoga’s holistic ethos transcends the realm of physical postures, inviting you to embrace a lifestyle that harmonizes the facets of your being – body, mind, and spirit. Through yoga, you embark on a journey that extends beyond the mat, encouraging balanced living that encompasses physical activity, nourishing foods, and mental wellness.

As you infuse the principles of yoga into your daily existence, you cultivate a profound sense of mindfulness that infuses each facet of your life. Mindful eating, cultivated through the practice of conscious nourishment, becomes a cornerstone of your lifestyle. Each meal becomes a sacred ritual, an opportunity to engage with food in a way that honors your body and your well-being.

Physical activity, rather than a laborious chore, becomes a joyful dance of self-expression. Yoga, with its diverse array of styles and postures, invites you to explore movement as a celebration of your body’s capabilities. This joyful movement, interwoven with yoga’s mindfulness, creates an environment where exercise is no longer a means to an end but a journey of self-discovery.

Mental wellness, an integral thread in the fabric of long-term weight management, flourishes under the nurturing embrace of yoga. Mindfulness and meditation, integral components of yoga, become tools that empower you to navigate the challenges of life with clarity and composure. This emotional resilience nurtures a balanced relationship with food, a deeper understanding of your triggers, and a fortified inner sanctuary that shields you from impulsive decisions.