Types of Yoga

Yoga is a unique combination of exercise, breathing and meditative processes that help people gain control over their body, mind and soul. The essence of yoga is to bring about control and harmony within the person. There are many different types of yoga for you to choose from and these include the following:

Hatha yoga: Hatha yoga is the most popular form of yoga that is practiced in the West today. The word Hatha is a union of two words; ‘ha’ means sun and ‘tha’ means moon. In other words, Hatha yoga is the coming together of opposites. Yoga helps the mind and body function in consonance. Hatha yoga includes the use of ‘asanas’ or postures and exercise, breathing techniques and ‘dhyana’ or meditation. Hatha yoga benefits not just the external body but the internal organs too and thus, help keep the body healthy and strong. Some celebrities who have been known to practice Hatha yoga include Jane Fonda, Madonna, Demi Moore, Sting and Michael Keaton.

Ananda yoga: This is an interesting form of yoga that focuses on energizing the body inside out. The ‘asanas’ involving exercising and relaxing different parts of the body, along with breathing exercises, in order to energize them. Ananda yoga also involves relaxation techniques that help calm the body and prepare it for meditation.

Iyengar yoga: Iyengar yoga is another popular form of yoga that is well accepted in the West. It is characterized by the use of props such as blankets, straps, wooden blocks and sand bags. Iyengar yoga is useful in rectifying any imbalances in the body and for this purpose it focuses on the how the feet, hands and the back are placed. The alignment in the body is crucial in Iyengar yoga. It is slow and stress is placed on symmetry and balance. Iyengar yoga is found to be especially popular with people with ailments and also with pregnant women.

Bikram yoga: This form of yoga should be taken up by those who are familiar with yoga ‘asanas’ and adept at it. It is also not for people who are unwell or suffering from any ailment. Bikram yoga is performed in a room where the temperature if at least 80 degrees and a humidifier may also be used. It is also known as hot yoga for this reason. This type of yoga is not for beginners and is quite dynamic and aims to use the body fully and keep it toned.

Astanga yoga: This type of yoga is again for those who are well versed in the rigors of yoga and are physically fit. Aashtanga yoga aims to clean the body of toxins by the heat it generates in it. It is vigorous and builds strength and stamina. It is also known as power yoga.

The choice of yoga you decide to take up should be dependent on how new you are to this form of exercise, whether you suffer from any disease or ailment, and what you expect to get out of your yoga routine. It is also important that you choose a form of yoga that you are comfortable with, as it requires dedication and regular practice.