Yoga means “union” in Sanskrit, the language of ancient India where yoga originated, and refers to the ‘union’ between mind, body and spirit. Yoga practice involves physical postures or poses that involves stretching and creating balance in the body through developing both strength and flexibility. Each pose has specific physical benefits and can be done quickly in succession, heating up the body (vinyasa-style yoga) or more slowly to increase stamina and allow concentration on the alignment of the pose. Although the approach to each pose can vary depending on the type of Yoga practiced, the poses remain the same.
Benefits of Yoga
The benefits of yoga start with general well-being. It takes a broad holistic approach that teaches people a new lifestyle, way of thinking and way of being in the world. Some physical benefits to note include:
- Increased strength and flexibility and more toned, longer and leaner muscles
- Increased grace
- Relaxation and relief of stress
- Increased energy and vitality
- Detoxification
Types of Yoga
Depending on your personality and what you want to get out of your Yoga Practice, there are a variety of types of Yoga you can practice.
| Type of Yoga | Description | Who it is Good For |
|---|---|---|
| Anusara | A heart-opening form of yoga focused on alignment and creating a joyful practice. Balances strength building with flexibility while progressively working the body open. | Process Princesses: Those looking to build strength and flexibility in a systematic and enjoyable way |
| Ashtanga | A fast-paced, intense style of flow yoga. A series of poses is performed connected by constant movement. | Athletic Type As: Athletes or those who are looking to increase overall fitness, strength and agility with one practice |
| Bikram (Hot Yoga) |
A hot yoga practice performed in front of mirrors. Focuses on alignment and building strength through the repetition of 26 postures. The room is kept between 95 – 100 degrees. | Competitive Cuties: Those who are competitive athletes or high energy individuals
Routine Lovers: As a result of the high number of repetitions, Bikram is good for those who prefer routines |
| Forrest | Focused on strengthing the core muscles and relieving tension in the neck and shoulders, Forrest yoga is based on cultivating compassion and self-acceptance. | Tension Release: Those who suffer from a stiff back, mild back pain, or neck and shoulder tension |
| Iyengar | An alignment focused practice that utilizes yoga props including blocks, straps, and blankets. Long holds and deep breathing are emphasized. | Yoga Beginners: Those who want to learn the fundamentals of yoga alignment
Relaxation Seekers: Those seeking relaxation techniques |
| Jivamukti | A spiritual and inspiring practice consisting of intense flowing postures, inspirational music, meditation and chants. | Holistic Hotties: Those looking to integrate their physical, emotional, and spiritual practices |
| Kripalu | A moderate style of yoga focused on systematically loosening the joints and stretching the muscles. Classes incorporate meditation, breathing, posture flows and relaxation. | Technique Lovers: Those who want to learn yoga alignment, relaxation techniques, and limited breathwork |
| Kundalini | A breath-centered practice with quick repetitive movements. Focused on freeing the energy in the lower body and allowing it to flow through the body. | Holistic Seekers: Those looking to increase their energy while bringing emotions to the surface
Breath Conscious: Those who want to perform intense breathwork |
| Power | A fast-flowing yoga practice typically done in a hot studio. Provides a cardiovascular workout in addition to full-body stretching. | Cardio Queens: Those looking for a cardiovascular component in their yoga class
Well-rounded Fitness Fans: Those who want to add yoga to a regular fitness routine |
| Vinyasa | Also called “flow yoga,” postures are linked through strong movement. Builds deep strength and flexibility through a combination of long holds and flow sequences. | Gymnastic Hopefuls: Those looking to build deep strength and flexibility, and who enjoy movement |
| Yin | Focused on stretching the body’s connective tissue through very long holds. Causes surrender and deep relaxation throughout the body. A good complement to more active forms of yoga. | Yoga Afficionados: Practitioners of other active forms of yoga
Stiff and Achey Relief: Those suffering from muscle stiffness or achey joints Relaxation Seekers: Those seeking deep relaxation |
