The many Styles of Yoga

Dating back many centuries, yoga isn't only a matter of stretching and flexibility training. It is a philosophical technique that intends to get rid of poisons from the body, open up space for God to come in, bring the mind and body together, and bring peace and relaxation into your lifestyle. One should consider the various styles of yoga before beginning; some focus on the fitness aspect, while others combine the meditation side as well.



By focusing on concentration with slow, methodical stretching, Iyengar yoga helps with coordination, balance, and circulation. Taking breaks between movements, combined with the use of straps, mats and blocks, helps remove the pressure off the body, making this style perfect for elderly people and people who are just starting out. Participants are inspired to discover a feeling of oneness and relaxation with controlled breathing and posture.



The goals of fitness yoga are to improve one's flexibility, muscular strength, and energy level. This current method of ancient principles emphasizes areas such as the gluteus muscle and abdomen to shape and strengthen. A good example is the very popular form of Pilates, with more than 11 million practitioners who do it regularly in the United States as well as more than 14,000 people who teach it. The focus is on the spinal cord and the main muscles that control posture; flowing movements are used to define and exercise these areas. Ashtanga Vinyasa, often called "power yoga", is a type of yoga for advanced learners. People who like cardio exercises and kick boxing often gravitate toward this type of yoga. It helps type-A, stressed personalities achieve inner relaxation.



Some types of yoga are intended to serve as therapy. Bikram yoga, also called hot yoga, is done in a room similar to a sauna that is kept at 95 to 100 degrees to promote perspiration and help the body purify itself and lose weight at the same time. The Forrest plan yoga meditation originated in Santa Monica, California and was created to eliminate emotional problems, remove toxins from the body, and make the stomach muscles strong with intense breathing and stretching. Anusara yoga is a meditational form of yoga which places emphasis on the spiritual side, using chants, meditation and contemplation. This light-hearted approach to alignment welcomes all levels and is a good springboard to more intense forms.



Since there are so many kinds of yoga to do, you can be certain you will find one that is right for you. Whether it is your intention to burn up some natural energy or obtain a tranquil feeling, you will enjoy the results of being more flexible, feeling stronger and thinking more clearly brought on by a relaxing session of yoga.


About the Author:
Brittina Graysten has only been enrolled in San Francisco yoga for a few short weeks, but can already feel its benefits. Brittina has more energy and feels stronger everyday and recommends Richmond SF yoga to anyone wanting the same.