Yoga is a form of exercise practiced by a wide range of people, from kids to expectant mothers. Many gyms and specialty yoga studios host a variety of yoga classes, from prenatal to hot yoga. You also have the option of practicing yoga at home using exercise videos as a guide. Understanding yoga basics gives you an idea of what to expect from a class or video.
Background
Yoga dates back 5,000 years to India. About 2,000 years ago, a sage pulled together the basic principles of yoga in the "Yoga Sutra," which is still used as a guide for modern yoga practice. The name "yoga" originated from a Sanskrit word meaning yoke, but the interpretation is often expanded to "union" to represent how yoga incorporates different aspects. Yoga goes beyond the physical aspects of the exercise to guide your growth spiritually and mentally.
Basics
Yoga consists of low-impact poses called asanas, which occur in a particular order or flow. Most poses are held for a certain amount of time before transitioning into the next one. The goal of the poses is to open up the body to allow for free-flowing energy, according to Yoga Journal. The average yoga class mixes in different poses, including those on the floor and standing asanas. An advanced yoga practice might include inversions, such as headstands or handstands. Each pose engages the sense of balance, strength and flexibility. Breathing and being in the moment with each pose also are emphasized.
Types
Yoga classes follow a particular type of yoga, each with a different focus that influences the types of poses and environment. Vinyasa, or power yoga, and Ashtanga yoga are both fast-moving classes that go through set poses to increase stamina and strength. Bikram yoga takes place in a hot room, sometimes 100 degrees F or higher. Kundalini yoga adds in chanting and meditation with the asanas. Lyengar yoga emphasizes proper alignment during each pose. Restorative yoga focuses on relaxation by staying in poses for longer periods, and prenatal yoga combines poses ideal for expecting mothers, taking into consideration the modifications necessary to keep a pregnant woman safe.
Benefits
Yoga exercise improves the physical condition of the body. The moves strengthen the muscles for a more toned look, and overall balance improves because of the balance required to do most of the asanas. Your body will likely become more flexible the longer you practice yoga. The physical aspect of the practice helps control or lose weight, and regular practice also helps reduce stress levels for an overall feeling of wellness and calm.
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