Yoga originated in India before 3000 B.C., but practice as we know it today began around 500 B.C. The word "yoga," derives from the Sanskrit root "yuj," or "to link" and refers to connecting with bliss by balancing physically, emotionally, mentally and spiritually. Various schools of thought have spread throughout India and offer a variety of yoga practices, such as Iyengar, Ashtanga, Sivananda and Satyananda.
Iyengar Yoga
A popular yoga style throughout the world, Iyengar yoga emphasizes alignment and uses props -- blocks, belts, blankets, ropes and chairs -- to enhance the practice so it's suitable for all levels. The Ramamani Iyengar Memorial Yoga Institute is located in Pune, India, where, as of 2010, founder B.K.S. Iyengar continues his practice and his daughter Geeta and son Prashant teach classes. Iyengar's best-selling book, "Light on Yoga," offers a detailed explanation of asanas, or postures, and prayanama, or breathing exercises.
Ashtanga Yoga
Based on the "Yoga Sutras" by Patanjali, Ashtanga yoga is a specific series of flowing postures, or vinyasa, that match breath to movement. Asana strengthens and strengthens the body, breath purifies the nervous system, and looking place, or dristhi, stabilizes the function of the mind. The late K. Pattabhi Jois learned ashtanga yoga from his teacher Sri T. Krishnamacharya in Mysore, India, and popularized this style throughout the world. Students are welcome at the K. Pattabhi Jois Ashtanga Yoga Institute in Mysore for a minimum of six months.
Sivananda Yoga
The mission of Sivananda yoga is to spread peace, health and joy. Named after Swami Sivananda, this style of yoga focuses on asana, pranayama, relaxation, proper diet, positive attitude and meditation. Twelve basic asanas -- headstand, shoulder stand, plow pose, fish, seated forward bend, cobra, locust, bow, spinal twist, crow, standing forward bend and triangle pose -- set the foundation of each asana practice. The Swami Sivananda Ashram is in Rishikesh, India, with Sivananda Yoga Vedanta Centers in New Delhi, Trivandrum, Chennai and Madurai.
Satyananda Yoga
The Bihar School of Yoga in Munger, India, takes a holistic view of the practice, called Satyananda Yoga. Swami Satyananda Saraswati developed his vision from sacred scriptures, ancient traditions and the practices of knowledge, devotion and selfless service. The practice includes asanas, pranayama and specific techniques of meditation. Saraswati also adapted the traditional tantra practice of yoga nidra, or yoga sleep, a mind-relaxing technique that takes you to a deeper level awareness without falling asleep.
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