Yoga is a very popular form of exercise these days: known for toning muscles, increasing flexibility, and providing mental and spiritual benefits. But with so many different types of yoga available, how do you know which will put the most wind in your sails? Not everybody can transform into a pretzel.
Hatha: Hatha is a general term that encompasses many of the physical aspects of yoga. A Hatha yoga class is probably going to be slow-paced and gentle. It’s a good introduction to basic yoga poses, and mindful breathing.
Vinyasa: Vinyasa, which means “breath-synchronized movement,” tends to be a more vigorous style based on the performance of a series of poses called Sun Salutations. Typical in yoga, movement is matched to the breath; you move from one pose to the next on an inhale or an exhale. Because of the smooth way the poses run together and become like a dance, this technique is also called “Vinyasa Flow.”
Ashtanga: Ashtanga, which means "eight limbs" in Sanskrit, is a fast-paced, intense style of yoga. You perform a set series of poses, always in the same order. Ashtanga practice is very physically demanding because of the constant movement from one pose to the next—a process producing intense internal heat and a profuse, purifying sweat that detoxifies muscles and organs. Ashtanga is an athletic yoga practice and is not for beginners.
(Ashtanga is the inspiration for what is often called Power Yoga. If a class is described as Power Yoga, it will be based on the flowing style of Ashtanga, but not necessarily keep strictly to the set series of poses.)
Iyengar: Iyengar promotes strength, flexibility, endurance, and balance through coordinated breathing and poses that require precise body alignment. (In yoga, the word alignment is used to describe the precise way in which your body should be positioned in each pose, in order to obtain the maximum benefits and avoid injury.) Iyengar practice usually emphasizes holding poses over long periods versus moving quickly from one pose to the next. It encourages the use of props, such as blocks and straps, in order to bring the body into alignment.
Kundalini: Kundalini yoga emphasizes the breath in conjunction with physical movement for the purpose of freeing energy in the base of the spine, and allowing it to move upwards. While breathing is an important part of any yoga practice, in Kundalini the breath is essential. This practice is well known for its psychological effects and its accessibility to people of all ages and abilities. In addition to postures, a typical class will also include chanting, meditation, and breathing exercises.
Bikram: This style is more generally referred to as Hot Yoga. It is practiced in a 95 to 100 degree room, which allows for a loosening of tight muscles and profuse sweating—even sweatier than Ashtanga! This method of yoga is a comprehensive workout including all the components of fitness: muscular strength, muscular endurance, cardiovascular flexibility and weight loss. The Bikram method is a set series of 26 poses, but not all hot classes make use of this series. This is the only yoga style that specializes in using the heated environment.
Anusara: Anusara combines a strong emphasis on physical alignment with a playful spirit. Poses are taught in a way that opens the heart, both physically and mentally, and props are often used. Postures can be challenging, but the real message of Anusara is to lighten the mind and strive to connect with the divine in yourself and others.
Restorative: Restorative postures are usually adapted from supine or seated yoga poses with the addition of blocks, bolsters, and blankets to eliminate unnecessary straining. It’s a quiet, healing style of yoga that encourages passive relaxation.
All yoga practices are designed to enhance your body’s natural inclination toward vibrant health. Approach the practice session in a calm, meditative mood (it’s not a competition.) The result is improved circulation, flexibility, stamina, and peace of mind.
Check out the wide variety of yoga classes offered by FitLife.
You can also drop by The Zone every Wednesday from 2:00-2:45 pm for a free yoga class!
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