What Style of Yoga is Right for You?

The main style of yoga that is taught in the West is Hatha yoga. Within Hatha yoga there are many different branches. These branches each have their own emphasis and characteristics. The goal of all yoga, however, is self-realization through the body and the mind.

Once you have seen the differences between the types of Hatha yoga, you may find one that will suit you better than the others. Lifestyle and personality have a bit of influence on this choice. Be sure to follow your instincts and the advice of a yoga teacher whose opinion you value.

Iyengar yoga was developed by one of the most influential teachers of the 20^th century. His name is B.K.S. Iyengar. This type of yoga is physically demanding and practiced to be anatomically exact. The postures are taught and perfected before any other techniques are introduced. It is acceptable to use props in this type of yoga. Iyengar yoga can be a great help to the injured or sick.

Astanga vinyasa yoga is a method that consists of several series of posture sequences. There is a linking movement, or vinyasa, between each posture. The first series is quite demanding physically. Along with the postures, the use of ujjayi breathing will heat up the body. This is a purifying process. There is also an Americanized version of they type of yoga. It is called Power yoga. It was developed by Beryl Bender Birch. It is a vigorous and flowing series of postures. It is often used to transition from aerobics to yoga.

Sivananda yoga was developed by Swami Sivananda. This branch of yoga was introduced to the west during the 1950s. It includes spiritual teaching, changing, meditation, breathing techniques, dietary and other supplemental practices along with the postures. There is often variation between the classes. However, in all of them, there is a resting position between each posture.

Viniyoga was developed by T.K.V. Desikachar in the 1960s. It is taught to one person or in very small groups. If you are seeking therapeutic benefits from yoga, this method is highly recommended. Besides the postures, other disciplines are also taught. These can include breathing techniques, philosophy and chanting. What is taught depends on what the student needs and is able to learn.

Bikram yoga is a form of Hatha yoga developed by Bikram Choudhury. It is a sequence of 26 postures that are designed to enhance the function of every body system. While performing these postures the breathing technique of ujjayii is used. If you are in good shape and do not have ailments or injuries, this is a good form of yoga for you.

There are many types of yoga. Only a few have been mentioned here. Once you decide you enjoy yoga, it is possible you may want to try a different type. Hopefully, this will help you find what you are looking for.

SOURCES

Fraser, Tara. "Live Better: Yoga". 2002. Duncan Baird Publishers Lgd. London, England.

Worby, Cynthia, MSW, MPH, RYT. "The Everything Yoga Book". 2002. Adams Media Corporation. Avon, MA, USA.