types of yoga

Download Types of Yoga

If you can't read please download the document

Upload: p-croppier

Post on 06-Sep-2015

1 views

Category:

Documents


0 download

DESCRIPTION

Types of Yoga Descriptions

TRANSCRIPT

Best for beginners: Hatha yogaJulia Barnes, co-founder of O Yoga in Lyon, France, says: There are many different styles of yoga out there, so it's worth trying various classes and teachers until you find what's right for you. Some styles of yoga are gentler and focus more on breathing, balancing the nervous system and relaxation techniques, while other styles will also have more physical, dynamic elements that can help increase strength and flexibility.Hatha is a gentle way to introduce yourself to yoga without overexertion. The origin of Hatha is all about opposites even its name is from the Sanskrit words for sun (ha) and moon (tha). You wont work up too much of a sweat during a Hatha class, but it will teach you the basic poses, breathing methods and flexibility that can be carried into any other style of yoga.Best for weight loss: Bikram yogaIf youre not afraid of a little sweat, give Bikram yoga a try. While most people think of yoga as a tool for relaxation, the ancient practice doesnt stop there. In 2005, a study by Dr Alan Kristal followed more than 15,000 middle-aged men and women to see if yoga alone could actually help shed pounds. The verdict? Practising yoga at least once a week for four years or more does keep weight at bay. The study also found that dedicated yogis lost an average of five pounds during the same amount of time that those not practising gained 14. The reason could be down to yoga influencing more mindful eating than other forms of exercise.Its estimated that a 90-minute Bikram class in 60-degree heat and 40% humidity can burn over 900 calories. Every class goes through about 26 postures and two breathing exercises. Just bring a lot of towels. And deodorant...Best for restoring digestive balance: Vinyasa flow yogaAncient yogis believed that good digestion is key for overall health of the mind and body. Not only does yoga help relax the mind and combat havoc-wreaking stress on our tummies, but it actually can help stimulate blood flow and keep peristalsis in the intestines working properly. Focus on poses such as the Cat, Downward Facing Dog, Seated Twist and Wide Knee Child's Pose, or give some Vinyasa Flow classes a try. Vinyasa moves through a series of poses while focusing on proper breathing, and is great for all yoga levels.Best for strength building: Ashtanga yogaWhy weight lift? If its muscle tone youre after, try Ashtanga yoga. All about endurance, flexibility and mobility, these non-stop athletic poses arent for the faint of heart. Youll move seamlessly from yogi push-ups to downward dogs, and even master the seemingly unattainable headstand as your strength and balance improve. Ashtanga focuses on the asana Bhujapidasana, or arm posture, that will eventually allow you to support your body weight on just your arms. No more bingo wings here.Best for stress relief: Kundalini yogaFor a more mindful, spiritual approach, Kundalini yoga is perfect for relaxing your mind and body before or after a stressful day. Kundalini, literally translating to the curl of the lock of hair, aims to help merge individual consciousness with the universal. It was made popular by Yogi Bhajan, whose most famous message surrounding Kundalini was It is your birthright to be healthy, happy, and holy. Youll chant, meditate and go through a series of postures and controlled breathing to help strengthen and relax.