Although many types of different styles exist, all yoga practices emphasize the union of the body, mind and emotions. The wide range of variations allows for diversity of physical and mental intensity, making yoga an ideal exercise option for a variety of fitness needs. Pregnant women, for example, may benefit from a gentler yoga style that emphasizes meditation, such as viniyoga, whereas active individuals who seek a more intense workout may prefer bikram or ashtanga yoga.
Bikram
Bikram yoga is also known as "heat" yoga because practitioners perform poses in temperatures of at least 100 degrees Fahrenheit. Bikram yoga is ideal for advanced yoga practitioners or those accustomed to high-intensity workouts. It emphasizes 26 poses that focus on flexibility and cleansing of the body and mind. A vigorous breath called "breath of fire," which is thought to release toxins and encourage bodily cleansing, accompanies bikram poses.
Iyengar
Named after founder B.K.S. Iyengar, iyengar yoga is ideal for students who desire to master the basic yoga poses. Iyengar yoga teachers must complete a two- to five-year training program for certification, and classes emphasize detailed and high-quality yoga poses. Iyengar poses are often held longer than poses in other yoga styles, and students may use props such as belts and blocks to promote higher-quality postures and prevent injury. Iyengar yoga also pays special attention to the order in which poses are performed.
Viniyoga
Viniyoga is also known as "yoga for wellness." According to the American Viniyoga Institute, it "refers to an approach to Yoga that adapts the various means and methods of practice to the unique condition, needs and interests of the individual." Teachers modify poses and meditations based on the needs of individual students; this strategy makes viniyoga a practical choice for injured, ill or elderly patients. Viniyoga is certainly not restricted to students with special needs, however; it may also benefit athletes and advanced yoga students who need an additional challenge.
Ashtanga
Ashtanga is a very challenging form of yoga that is ideal for advanced yoga students. It uses a flow of six specific poses, which increase in difficulty from beginning to end. A breathing technique known as the "ujjayi" breath accompanies all poses; this powerful, loud breath is meant to clear the throat and chest. According to Ashtanga.com, the primary aim of ashtanga yoga is to make students sweat to cleanse the body of toxins and stress. Power yoga is a modified form of ashtanga yoga.
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