Yoga is a type of exercise often combined with a philosophy and meditation. It is a floor exercise, typically requiring little or no equipment. Some movements are basic to all yoga types, such as controlled breathing, but the duration the position is held and the amount of time spent breathing and meditating are a few factors distinguishing various types of yoga.
Know Your Goals
Step 1
If the goal is rehabilitation, doctors often recommend hatha yoga, according to Yoga Logic. Hatha is the most basic yoga. For rehabbing an injury, Iyengar yoga is also used. It can be demanding, requiring positions to be held for long periods, but it can be useful for recovery or modified for the elderly. Iyengar uses equipment such as blankets, blocks and straps to help attain the positions.
Step 2
If the goal is spiritualism, then consider either karma yoga or bhakti yoga. Karma yoga is accompanied by the belief that balance exists in the universe and both good and bad come back to a person. Bhakti can be a method of accessing or worshiping god.
Step 3
If the goal is fitness, ashtanga or bikram yogas might be right. Both require a bit of a muscular workout, according to Mats Mats Mats. Bikram is done in a warm room.
Step 4
If the goal is strength, power yoga is the right call. It is a modern yoga based on ashtang yoga. Positions go from one strength-training type move to another. Some emphasis is placed on breathing and meditation, but not as much as other forms.
Step 5
If the goal is sexual exploration, tantra yoga might be the yoga of choice. Though often misinterpreted and exploited, this form of yoga addresses desire and the understanding of the self through its exploration or denial.
Tips and Warnings
- Teachers often incorporate a couple of different styles into their classes. If possible, talk to the teacher before the class to see whether their approach is one that will work for you.
- Yoga can be strenuous, so use your body as a guide for how far to stretch and how long to hold positions.
Things You'll Need
- Mat
- Class, instructor, DVD or tape
- Blanket & blocks
- Loose fitting clothes
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