Definition Of Types Of Yoga

Nearly two dozen different types of yoga are practiced around the world, according to Mats, Mats, Mats, each offering individuals different styles, positions and benefits. Yoga is a low-impact form of exercise that tones, stretches and strengthens muscles through a variety of positions the user employs. Yoga is also a popular method for meditating and for relieving stress and anxiety. Working the body, mind and soul, yoga offers individuals numerous health and wellness benefits, regardless of style or technique. Understanding basic types of yoga offers individuals the opportunity to enjoy such benefits at home, at a yoga studio or through yoga classes at your local gym.

Vinyasa Yoga

Vinyasa yoga concentrates on coordinating breathing patterns with movements, says Mats, Mats, Mats, and is rated as a physically active form of yoga, requiring powerful moves and flexibility. One of the most common Vinyasa movements is the Sun Salutation sequence. Vinyasa is further broken down into a variety of styles that focus on inhaling and exhaling while performing parts of sequences at a fast, smooth pace.

Astanga Yoga

Also known as Ashtanga yoga, this method is also a relatively physically demanding type of yoga that often surprises first-timers expecting to sit on the floor cross-legged and chant. As with Vinyasa yoga, Astanga yoga synchronizes breathing with powerful, sweeping moves that increase muscle tone, strength and endurance. Because of the complexity of positions and postures, Astanga yoga is not recommended for beginners, says Mats, Mats, Mats.

Hatha Yoga

Perhaps one of the most common forms of yoga, Hatha yoga is relatively popular in the U.S., according to ABC of Yoga. This style of yoga blends breathing, postures and quiet reflection, or meditation, into moves that are produced in a smooth, slow and calm manner. This type of yoga is often recommended for beginners to yoga, as it allows slow, quiet movements that utilize fairly easy poses.

Iyengar Yoga

Iyengar yoga focuses on flexibility, coordination, balance and strength with poses and positions held for longer periods of time than other forms of yoga. Movements into and out of poses and postures is slow and controlled, with periods of breathing in between. Iyengar yoga can be performed by nearly all individuals, including the elderly, through their ample use of cushions and slower pace.

Power Yoga

Power yoga is an Americanized version of Astanga yoga popular in many gyms across the U.S, says Mats, Mats, Mats. Combining stretching, strengthening moves and basic calisthenics-type exercise, Power yoga offers continuous movement from one position to the next, creating an effective aerobic workout for beginners and experts alike.