But first, what is yoga? Yoga is a form of exercise that teaches a series of postures and exercises as well as proper breathing techniques. It attempts to restore your body to a balanced state and to preserve overall wellness. Contrary to the beliefs of some people, yoga is not a painful process. If you are overweight, suffer from high blood pressure, arthritis, or spinal disk injuries, you should consult your physician before doing yoga. If you are given the "ok" to yoga, be sure to tell your instructors of your health problems.

So if you're looking for ways to tighten your butt, here are some yoga positions that you may find especially helpful.

• Warrior II: to do this pose, stand with your feet about 4 feet apart. Then turn your right foot out about ninety degrees. Turn your left foot in about fifteen degrees. Bend your right know ninety degrees so that it is directly over your ankle (be sure that you don't go past your ankle). Lift your right toes. Reach your arms out to your sides at about your shoulder's height. Hold for 10-20 seconds. Switch sides.


• One legged bridge: to do this pose, lie on your back and place your hands down on the mat beside your hips. Bend your knees and then bring your heels closer to your butt. Raise your pelvis, but leave your shoulders, neck, head and feet on the ground. Now walk your legs back out away from you, stopping when your toes struggle to touch the mat (because you're reaching as far as your can). Bend one knee, and then straighten your leg. Push on the inside of the leg that is still on the ground. Hold for 10-20 seconds and then switch to the other leg.


• Locust: to do this pose, lie on your stomach with your head turned to one side and your arms close to the side of your body. Slide your hands under your thighs (palms pressing against them). Inhale slowly and then raise your head, chest and legs off the floor as high as possible. Tilt your head back. Keep your feet, knees and thighs pressed together. Hold this as long as you can. Then relax, and do it again.


• Standing Bow: to do this pose, start in mountain pose. Then pick up one foot with your hand, palm facing out, and reach forward with your other hand. Kick back with your foot and bend your knee. Slowly lower your upper body maintaining the outstretched arm. Your foot should be in line with your head, and your knee in line with your hip. Hold for 10-20 seconds and then repeat.


• Half Moon: to do this position, start in the extended triangle position, soften your right leg and place your left hand on the hip. Bend your right knee, and slide your left foot forward. At the same time, reach your right hand forward about a foot in front of the right foot. Begin to straighten your right leg while lifting your left leg parallel to the floor. Stack your hips, left on top of the right. Bear weight on your right leg and lift your ankle of the standing foot upward, flexing your foot. Reach your left arm toward the ceiling and open your chest. Your arms should form a straight line. Hold for 10-20 seconds and then repeat.