Yoga in one of the most beneficial exercises we can do as we grow older.  It focuses on building strength, flexibility and a calm mind, all very helpful for keeping us at our healthiest, physically and mentally.  But it can be confusing choosing which style of yoga is the best fit for our needs.

This article provides some distinctions between the various options and will soon have you spending regular time on your yoga mat. 

Yoga is one of the fastest growing types of exercise. Though it has been practiced for centuries, it has only gained mainstream approval, meaning you can easily find yoga classes in your local fitness club or video store. If Yoga is an interest, then it's essential to find out which style of yoga is suited to you. There are many styles of Yoga that are practiced today. The different styles are all based on the same basic poses but they each differ slightly in their emphasis. There are many more styles than listed here, with many gyms offering their own style, which is often a combination of several other styles. Here is a list of the most popular Yoga styles and what they represent so you can decide on the best one for you.

Hatha

Hatha Yoga encompasses many physical types of yoga. This traditional style yoga is typically slow-paced with gentle movements. This is a good starting place as the exercises are likely to be easy and basic.

Vinyasa

Vinyasa Yoga is another widely used term to describe a yoga style. It generally provides a more vigorous style of yoga in which breathing is synchronized to movements. One of the warm-up exercises is typically the Sun Salutation, which is followed by more intense positions and stretching.

Astanga and Power Yoga

The word Astanga means 'eight limbs' in Sanskrit. This Yoga is a faster paced and more intense style. In this yoga style a set group of poses is done in the same order, as a routine. There is much movement or flow and it is more physically demanding than other methods of yoga. Power Yoga stemmed from Astanga yoga and is a popular type of yoga at many gyms and studios. Similar to Astanga in movement, Power Yoga may not follow a set routine.

Iyengar

This style of Yoga is based on the teachings of yogi B.K.S. Iyengar. The main emphasis on this style of yoga is body alignment. This type of yoga stresses holding the poses for long periods of time. This type of yoga also uses props such as blocks and straps, which help keep the body aligned during exercise.

Kundalini

In Kundalini Yoga the emphasis is on breathing in conjunction with the physical movements. It is believed that this allows the body's lower body energy to be freed to move upward. This style emphasizes controlling the breath along with more rapid and repetitive poses and may use chanting to keep the breath in rhythm.

Anusara

A relatively new style of yoga, it is popular at some studios because it uses a positive philosophy, which is derived from Tantra. There is a general belief that all things are good. These types of classes are usually less strict than other classes in nature so the atmosphere is often more casual and fun. Props are often used in this style.

Sivananda

This style of yoga was founded in 1957 and is popular in many locations worldwide. It is based on five principles: exercise, breathing, relaxation, diet and meditation. This is a widely accepted yoga style.


Deborah Carraro is an avid nutrition, health & fitness enthusiast. As partner in a successful online Natural Health business she has worked with the best nutritionists, fitness professionals and health experts. You can find her online at http://www.YogaForOptimalHealth.com.


Article Source: Free Articles

LIST OF COMMENTS