Russian yoga is similar to Indian yoga in that there is a focus on asanas, or poses, done in sequence with a concentration on the breath. Russian yoga, however, does not pull from any type of yoga, whereas Indian yoga is based on various schools and disciplines of the practice. Yoga originated in India and has gained widespread popularity across the world, spawning several styles.
Russian Yoga
Russian yoga generally focuses on performing poses. "The Big Book of Yoga," describes yoga in Russia as a sport through which strength of body is achieved. Russian yoga does pull from traditional poses that were developed in India, but most Russian yoga studios and schools do not classify themselves as teaching a particular style of yoga. Rather than teaching Ashtanga, Kundalini, or power yoga, Russian yoga teaches poses from a blend of disciplines.
Indian Yoga
In India, from which yoga originates, the practice of yoga is considered a lifestyle. Most yoga is associated with Patanjali, a grammar scholar and doctor who outlined the practice in writing more about 250 B.C. Patanjali was the creator of Ashtange yoga, detailing an eight-limbed path through which peace and calmness of mind, body and spirit are achieved. Indian yoga is focused on poses, but more on the breath. Breathwork is a large part of Indian yoga practices from several disciplines.
Benefits
Benefits of Indian and Russian yoga are quite similar. Through Russian yoga, you can build strength and gain flexibility in your muscles. You can help strengthen the bones, ligaments and tendons surrounding the joints. With Indian yoga, you will receive all the physical benefits but also better breathing. Harnessing the power of your breath will give you tools to help calm your mind, meditate and find inner peace and live with less stress. Indian yoga not only gives your body the benefits of strength and flexibility, but also empowers your breath, which helps keep the mind and thoughts grounded.
Considerations
Unlike many physical activities, yoga can be practiced at any age, fitness level, weight, height and regardless of illness or injury. Yoga is such a versatile practice, it can be adapted to almost anyone with any sort of health or fitness limitations. One thing you should consider is the type of yoga you practice, choosing wisely from types as Hatha, power, Ashtanga or Iyengar based on personal goals and needs. As always with any new activity, make sure to consult with your medical professional before beginning Indian or Russian yoga.
References
- "The Book of Yoga;" Bridgewater Book Company Limited;
- "Light on Yoga;" B.K.S. Iyengar; 2006
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