Yoga Styles Explained

Yoga is undoubtedly the real deal as far as mental and physical health is concerned. One thing that is for sure, this ancient practice is not a passing trend. It has been practiced for thousands of years, and its value to human health enjoys a solid scientific backing. There are different types of yoga. To broaden your understanding of this ancient practice, this article looks at some popular yoga styles and their suitability to various health needs.

Vinyasa Yoga

This is among the most popular types of yoga practised in most fitness centres. The term “Vinyasa” refers to the practice of linking body movements with breath. The poses are done following a defined sequence. The popularity of this type of yoga is attributed to the fact that it employs pleasant music and some sensual movements.

Ashtanga Yoga

Ashtanga yoga is mostly associated with traditional Indian yoga practices. The term “Ashtanga” means the use of eight limbs. Like Vinyasa, Ashtanga yoga focuses on synchronising your breathing pattern with body movements. The series of moves employed in this type of yoga include the Sun Salutation A, the Sun Salutation B, a standing sequence, and finally a closing sequence.

These movements should be performed in the same sequence. Unlike in Vinyasa, this type of yoga is performed without music.

Iyengar Yoga

Iyengar yoga is another type of yoga based on the eight limbs of yoga. This type of yoga gets its name from a famous yogi from India, B.K.S. Iyengar. This practice places vital emphasis on posture alignment using breath control. Traditionally, this style of yoga does not employ any form of music and is usually practised at a slower pace. This way, students can immerse themselves and get deeper into the postures.

Yin Yoga

This is a meditative practice that is meant to make your body comfortable without actually moving. Yin yoga essentially subjects your connective tissues to minimal stress, as a way of loosening joints and enhancing flexibility. It essentially allows body muscles to relax with gravity and attain perfect rest. The time spent in a specific position often ranges from forty-five seconds to two minutes for beginners.

Kundalini Yoga

Kundalini yoga is popularly referred to as the yoga of awareness. It employs particular movements, sound, breath, and some meditation as its tools to declutter the mind and make it relax.

This type of yoga is known to be particularly useful in strengthening the body and the nervous system, purifying the blood, balancing hormones, and working the subconscious part of the brain.

This type of yoga teaches you to create a buffer zone in your mind, that trains your mind not to react emotionally.

There are a lot more types of yoga than those discussed here. If you are starting or trying a new style of yoga, it is imperative to go with an open mind.

When you find a method or practice that seems to work for you, make it part of your life. You need consistency and dedication to enjoy the benefits of practicing yoga.