Styles of Yoga & Benefits for the Body
22 Oct 2019 HYN Himalayan Yoga Academy
There are so many different types of yoga out there, whether you want a more physically demanding class or an easy, relaxing, meditative class. With each style a bit different from the others, you’ll find variations depending on the teacher. Learn below Styles of Yoga
Read on to explore some of the most popular types of yoga, and discover which one might be the best fit for you.
1. Hatha Yoga – Induction into The Basics
Hatha Yoga is actually an overarching category to which all other subgroups belong. Theoretically, Hatha means forcefulness or will by which your body movements shall be governed in this asana format.
A typical Hatha class introduces you to the basic asanas, divided into beginner, intermediate, and advanced sequences. The practice sets a slow pace, and the instructor thoroughly weaves breathwork into it. The slow, contemplative, and relaxing mood of Hatha Yoga works for unwinding after a long and hard day, getting prepped for more intensive exercise routines, a great unwind, and a mind-centering practice.
2. .Vinyasa Yoga – A Moving Meditation
Vinyasa yoga is popular and is taught at most studios and gyms. “Vinyasa” means linking breath with movement. The postures are usually done in a flowing sequence, or “vinyasa flow.” You can memorize the fluid movements and perform them as a moving meditation, almost like a dance.
The popularity of this style of yoga comes from the sensual movements, and pleasant music, usually (but not always) practiced in a dark room, or sometimes by candlelight and with the eyes closed.
3. Bikram Yoga– Sauna and Detox With Asanas
The class consists of the same twenty-six yoga postures and two breathing exercises. You practice it for ninety minutes in a room heated to 105 degrees Fahrenheit with 40% humidity. The room is bright and the student’s face mirrors to check proper posture and alignment. There is no music during class.
It makes you sweat profusely leading to a thorough detox, weight loss, regulated metabolism, and improved circulation. Don’t forget to carry water and stay wary of low salt levels.
4. Kundalini Yoga– Uncoiling Your Dormant Potentials
Kundalini is a very meditative form and relies on the notion of Chakras or focal points of energies at different rungs of the body. Chanting, meditation, mudras, and breathing are the main tools of Kundalini. Kundalini yoga helps you awaken to your highest potential, enabling subtle sensations, cleansing the physical body, and reaching into the subconscious mind.
5. Yin Yoga– Cultivating Patience, Relaxation, and Peace
Yin Yoga, rooted in Taoist teachings, enhances patience, peace, and restfulness in the practitioner. The postures last for several minutes, stretching the connective tissues, increasing their elasticity, and activating the body’s life energy.
Now that you have some insight into types of yoga and their benefits, choose the one that works best for your temperament.