Taking the mystery out of the numerous types of yoga practice
With so many type of yoga out there, it can be a little intimidating when you are looking to start your practice. Yoga is not just about physical movement; it can also be very spiritual. Here's the rundown on a few different styles so you can find the one best suited to you.
Hatha
Hatha Yoga encompasses many different styles of physical yoga. It involves poses, called asanas, breathing and stretching. Here are three of the most popular forms of Hatha Yoga
- Ashtanga - Ashtanga is a vigorous yoga that is intense and face paced. There is constant movement from one pose to the next. Power Yoga is based on Ashtanga.
- Ansura - Ansura is a modern form of Hatha yoga with an underlying philosophy that emphasizes the importance of self-love, positivity and the goodness found in all things.
- Moksha - Moksha Yoga is performed in a heated room. The participant goes though a series of poses to help strengthen and detoxify the body. It is said to have many health benefits such as improved digestion and reduction of muscle pain.
The following styles represent the four pillars of yoga and are taken from the sacred scriptures of Hinduism.
Tantra Yoga
This is spiritual form of yoga that uses astrology, numerology and other sciences to better examine the nature of the universe from the point of view of the individual.
- Kundalini - This practices releases Kundalini energy (found at the base of the spine). This is done through rapid and repetitive poses, chanting and intense breathing exercises.
Mantra Yoga
This style of yoga involved chanting sounds, word or vibrations. This is to clear the mind so that you may transcend the world into a higher form of consciousness.
Karma Yoga
Loosely translated it reads "Union through action". Karma yoga follows the philosophy that a person should act and think in accordance with his/her duties (dharma) without consideration of the self in order to attain the love of God (bhakti). It is outlined in one of the sacred texts of Hinduism.
Raja-Yoga
Raja yoga is known as the path of meditation. There are eight clearly defined aspects that one must follow in order to achieve liberation. These include self restraint and religious study
Bhakti-Yoga
This spiritual practice is known as the path of devotion. The devotee will offer prayers, meditate and perform services for and for God (bhakti)
Jnana-Yoga
Jnana yoga is the path of knowledge or wisdom. Devotees of this path must understand the difference between the body and the soul follow four strict paths to salvation
