types of yoga

Understanding the Different Types of Yoga

By Suzanne Morrison

Types of yoga, Yoga is an activity that is becoming more and more popular today in the western world. The number of places holding Yoga classes is increased and there are a plethora of different types of yoga. With a choice of Hatha Yoga, Ashtanga Yoga, Power Yoga, Iyengar Yoga, Bikram Yoga, Vinyasa Yoga and many more can easily be confused

this article will help you understand the difference between the most popular types of yoga; you can choose the right type for you.

Hatha Yoga - in Sanskrit (an ancient classical language of India) "Ha" means "sun" and "tha" means "moon". Type of Yoga is relatively slow paced, gentle type of yoga and is a good start if you are really new to yoga and do not know any of the asanas (poses). As with all types of yoga, hatha yoga is to unite body, mind and soul.

Ashtanga Yoga - This is the type of yoga that I practice regularly and means "eight limbs" in Sanskrit. The stylish, fast-moving and intense yoga practice is on a progressive set sequence of asanas, synchronized with the breath-based. Ashtanga yoga can be very stressful as it is constantly moving from one asana to the next in the order, you find that it to increase stamina, flexibility and strength...

Power Yoga - this is a western interpretation of Yoga and is based on Ashtanga yoga. A Power Yoga class may not always be the exact sequence of poses like Ashtanga yoga stick, but it does involve practicing a series of poses without stopping and starting.

Iyengar Yoga - This type of yoga is based on the teachings of BKS Igengar basis and focus in the right direction and shape of the body. Unlike Ashtanga Yoga, the emphasis is on holding each pose for a longer period of time does not move continuously from one pose to another. Iyengar yoga uses props such as blocks and belts to align the body in various poses.

Vinyasa Yoga - Vinyasa means breath synchronized movement and is another fast-paced type of yoga, with an emphasis on breathing. A practice typically starts with a greeting the sun and moves into a more intense stretch. During the practice each poses with a counter-balanced posture.

Bikram yoga - also known as "hot yoga", is heated in a room to 105 degrees, with humidity is practiced by 40%. In general, the order of 26 different poses in Bikram yoga class is practiced and the hot temperature helps to loosen muscles. Due to the high temperature most people sweat a lot during class and this helps to rid the body of toxins.

If you are just starting out or have never done yoga before, I suggest different types of yoga try to figure out what you like.

Remember, there is no rule that says you should be on a kind of yoga stick. I like Ashtanga Yoga best, but I also occasionally go to Iyengar and Hatha yoga classes for a little variety.

* what is yoga
* power yoga asanas