Silver buddha statue
As the centuries passed, many varieties of yoga evolved, each one placing emphasis on different criteria—continuous movement, precision of body placement, length of time spent in hold, intensity or depth of stretches, or spiritual renewal and psychic restoration.
Silver buddha statue
CURRENT CHOICES
Whatever your personal fitness or spiritual goal, you will find that yoga offers something for nearly everyone. The following list covers some of the most popular versions of yoga taught today, along with tips on their target audience and levels of difficulty. You might want to take a few sample classes covering several types of yoga until one clicks. You may also find more than one discipline that works, especially if you desire different results at different times. Always remember that in any level of yoga, the instructor is there to answer questions and guide you safely.
• Hatha Yoga. This slower type of yoga, which unifies body and mind, requires the practitioner to hold basic poses for the count of a few breaths. Technically, the Sanskrit term hatha—from ha, “sun,” and tha, “moon”—refers to any yoga that teaches physical postures. As a gentle introduction to yoga, it is ideal for beginners.
• Vinyasa Yoga. Here the student learns to link continuous movements and breathing in a dance-like, dynamic flow. Transitions are quick and sessions become aerobic; they are often taught to rhythmic music. Vinyasa is especially great for runners and endurance fans.
• Iyengar Yoga. This discipline focuses on precise movements and correct body alignment while the poses are held; it utilizes props such as bands, blankets, and blocks. Detail-oriented students will enjoy these classes, but will need at least one beginner session to learn technique. Iyengar works well for older students or those recovering from injuries.
• Ashtanga Yoga. This discipline features six sequenced poses that create internal heat as you work your way through them. Some classes have a leader calling out poses; Mysore style requires students to work on their own. Ashtanga is a good fit for anyone who likes movement, routine, and strict guidelines.
• Bikrim Yoga. You’re guaranteed to sweat as you progress through 26 poses and two breathing exercises in a room heated to 105˚F. All classes feature the same 90-minute sequence. Newbies should take things slow at first. Bikrim is best for students who like an established routine and want a really strenuous workout.
• Hot Yoga. Like Bikrim, it is performed in a heated studio, but the instructor does not limit the poses to 26. Heated muscles can move into deeper poses, but there is also a risk of overstretching. These classes appeal to those who require the guarantee of a tough, drenching workout.
• Kundalini Yoga. With its cultlike following, including many celebrities, this discipline combines challenging mental and physical requirements with controlled breathwork and the inclusion of chanting, singing, and meditating. It appeals greatly to those seeking a spiritual or internal connection to their workout.
• Yin yoga. This slow, studied form of yoga incorporates minutes-long holds that target connective tissues and fascia and restore elasticity and length to limbs. It also incorporates meditative qualities that have restorative potential. It is recommended for tense or stressed individuals who need to unwind and stretch.
• Restorative yoga. This slow-moving discipline with its longer holds is meant to tap into the parasympathetic nervous system, allowing students to achieve deep relaxation. Props may include bolsters, blankets, and blocks. It works well to reduce insomnia, anxiety, and the jitters, and benefits athletes taking a recovery day.
Namaste gesture
WHAT’S THAT MEAN?
KUNDALINI
In yoga, "kundalini" is latent female or primal energy, often represented as a serpent coiled around the base of the spinal column. When this energy is stimulated, it uncoils, and you may experience a transformative “kundalini awakening.”