Yoga has evolved from an ancient Eastern practice for physical and spiritual balance to a Western workout for strength and flexibility. Yoga combines poses, or sustained movements, with breathing and meditation techniques. Participants of all fitness levels can benefit from the various types of yoga. Benefits include improved strength, endurance, flexibility, circulation, posture and spinal alignment. Yoga, as a practice, promises a healthy lifestyle, combining physical, emotional and spiritual health.
Hatha Yoga
Hatha yoga is the best yoga for accessibility and convenience because it is the most common type of yoga practiced in the United States. Hatha yoga emphasizes the physical poses, along with breathing and meditation. For those who are interested in the physical benefits of yoga, hatha yoga is suggested. Most yoga classes in health clubs and studios practice hatha yoga. There are various forms of hatha yoga that also focus on the physical aspect of the practice.
Kundalini Yoga
Kundalini yoga is the best type of yoga for energy improvement. Some resources classify this type of yoga as a form of hatha due to its physical nature. The movements are done at a fast pace, resembling an exercise class. In addition to the physical workout, the focus is on deep breathing and chanting. The goal of this workout is to clear energy paths and eliminate blockages. This allows stored energy at the base of your spine to be awakened and channeled. This type of yoga also improves strength and endurance.
Bhakti Yoga
Bhakti yoga is the best type of yoga for a spiritual practice. This type of yoga emphasizes love and devotion to the concept of a higher being. Bhakti yoga is practiced through poses, chants and prayer. The chanting creates a connection to a universal consciousness. Through selfless love, the practitioner develops compassion and acceptance of others. This type of yoga is for those seeking a spiritual connection through the physical practice.
Anusara Yoga
Anusara yoga, or anasura yoga, is the best style of yoga for beginners. It has been classified as hatha yoga because of the physical poses. It has also been thought of as similar to Iyengar yoga because of the focus on alignment. Anusara yoga techniques guide students to work within their own abilities. It is a nonthreatening, less intense form of yoga and the best type for the out-of-shape participant. This is a fairly new type of yoga and is the fastest growing style.
References
- "The American Physical Therapy Association Book of Body Maintenance and Repair"; Steve Vickery and Marilyn Moffat; 1999
- "Yoga For the Joy of It"; Minda Goodman Kraines and Barbara Rose Sherman; 2009
- "Book of Yoga and Pilates"; Christina Brown; 2004
- "Primary Yoga: Official Certification Manual"; Fitness Instructor Training; 2003
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