If you'r e looking to begin a yoga routine, it can be (more than a little) intimidating. There are SO many different types of yoga out there, and each "brand" of yoga is geared towards different goals and bodies. Some types of yoga are perfect for those of us who are seeking to gain a little inner peace without breaking a sweat, while others are much more focused on toning up or losing weight. Even if you're just looking to spice up an old work-out routine, there's a type of yoga out there for you too!
So here's a little "introduction to yoga" for the overwhelmed individual--
Originating in India thousands of years ago, yoga is becoming increasingly popular in the West. In Sanskrit, "yoga" means "union", meaning that a steady practice would help to unite your body and mind. The idea is that when you are able to gain full control of your body through the postures, you will reach your full peak of physical and mental health. Any cynics out there? I was too before I took up yoga, but I've gotta admit, I haven't gotten sick since I've started practicing regularly nearly two years ago!
The combination of the controlled breathing exercises and the poses (called "asanas" in Sanskrit) help to cleanse your body from the inside out. Certain compression postures are known to stimulate important glands in the body, while the stretching poses help to get the blood flowing. Yoga enthusiasts rave about its healing benefits, which include improving concentration and relieving stress. What else can yoga do for you? In clinical trials, yoga has been shown to--
• Increase flexibility and the health of the joints
• Flush out toxins from your body by increasing blood circulation
• Tone muscles
• Increase energy
Next comes the fun part, choosing the right type of yoga to suit your body and lifestyle. Here are some of the most common forms of yoga--
• Hatha is one of the most popular forms of yoga in America. "Hatha" is an umbrella term that includes the more physical types of yoga. For a more gentle and slow-paced class, Hatha is a great introduction to yoga postures.
• Vinyasa also has many different varieties. These classes include lots of intense stretches. Vinyasa classes are centered around poses called Sun Salutations, which synchronize movement and breath.
• Ashtanga ("Power" Yoga) tends to be more fast-paced and physically demanding. Classes tend to be non-stop moving and are a great cardiovascular workout.
• Iyengar is great for people with joint problems because of its focus on body alignment. As opposed to quickly moving through the poses, Iyengar encourages you to hold the poses for longer periods of time in order to gain their maximum benefits.
• Kundalini is all about controlling your breathing in order to release energy in your body. Breathing is used in conjunction with quick postures. With its emphasis on breathing, meditation, and a bit of chanting, Kundalini is definitely one of the more spiritual branches of yoga.
• Bikram is my personal favorite. I'm a bit biased about this type of yoga, though it is definitely not for everyone. The room is heated to over 100 degrees while you hold postures for up to a minute long. Not for the faint of heart.
There are TONS of yoga classes out there. What is your personal favorite?
