Are you interested in yoga, but are confused about which kind of yoga you should practice, depending on your health and lifestyle?
With the popularity of yoga rising throughout the western world, you have probably heard about its healing powers by now.
However, you still arenโt sure exactly which kind of yoga you should opt for. Chances are, you have probably asked everyone you know who practices it. While they may have a few suggestions, they may be biased in their decision, when it comes to which type of yoga you should go for.
It is fairly simple to find the right kind of yoga for you. Especially if you have all of the information there is to know about it.
First and foremost, you should try to consider why you are planning on adopting the yoga lifestyle. Was it suggested to you by your doctor for medical treatment or was it a means for you to lead a more healthy lifestyle?
Just remember that you arenโt alone. Many people struggle with trying to find the right yoga class and yoga routine for themselves. Some can spend years jumping from class to class, type to type, or different yoga teachers before finding the right match.
You may find yourself drawn to the names of each and every yoga class; oftentimes witty and inspiring. However, I would suggest making your decision on more than just the location or the name of your yoga class. Instead, take the time to sit down with each of the yoga instructors, and get a feel for their teaching techniques.
It may be helpful if you can find a teacher that will allow you to sit in a few yoga classes. This will give you a first-hand view of what you can expect from your yoga class. While some may promote the use of props, and focus on slow and controlled movements; others may focus more on the spiritual or exercise part.
Do you know that yoga can numerous benefits for your body? Read Meditation and Yoga Can Reverse DNA Reactions Which Cause Stress
All of which are beneficial to many different people in their walks of life. However, power-yoga may not be the best choice if you suffer from chronic back pain. For this reason, you should take care in choosing the right type of yoga.
Before we look into the different types of classes and what you can expect, you should first remember that as with any exercise program; you should first consult with your doctor. This is especially true if you have any diagnosed health problems that might reduce your range of motion.
Once you have begun to visit the many different yoga classes available in your area, you will find that there is a common denominator among them all โ they are focused on bringing oneness to your life.
A unity between body, mind, and soul.
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Regardless of the fact that this oneness is all something we hold inside of ourselves on a daily basis. However, most people will find that it can be difficult to reach this place in our own selves without a little help.
Unfortunately, there is no real way to answer the question of โwhat type of yoga is right for me?โ. It is more or less a moment of inspiration that you will find, once you have found the right class.
As with so many things in life, yoga is specialized. However, there are many different options to choose from. No one yoga class is going to be right for everyone who practices yoga. Just like no one yoga prop or work out wear will be right for one person.
Think of it as a โfittingโ for your lifestyle. Try your yoga class on for size, and if it doesnโt fit your lifestyle, your schedule, or your medical needs; then you should probably try to find something different.
When it comes to yoga, there is a common misconception among newcomers, which is you donโt need to have a particular religion or belief to practice yoga. Just as you donโt need to be of any specific shape, or size to practice it. Everyone can and will benefit from the healing nature of yoga. It is even common for families to practice yoga together.
If this is your plan, then finding a low-impact yoga class will be imperative for younger children, and will also allow all of you to relax while getting healthy together. This, of course, is one of the many reasons why yoga has become so popular in the western world. As we all fight to keep our lifestyles healthy in a stressful and fast-paced lifestyle, we find that there just isnโt enough time to run from one yoga class to another. Instead, find one class that will fit as a whole with your group of yoga friends, or family. and will additionally help to keep your schedule relatively unscathed.
The different types of yoga can be fairly difficult to differentiate. However, there are a few key differences that can help you choose which yoga is right for you. Whether you are looking for a high-impact yoga to help you drop pounds quickly; or simply trying to find relief from arthritis or other chronic pain. There is something for everyone in yoga, and you will most definitely find the one, that will be the perfect fit for you!
There are 4 of the most common and best types of yoga that you can choose from, based on your needs and preferences.
1. Hatha Yoga
Hatha Yoga means union and is a term for yoga that employs both physical and breathing exercises to calm the mind. This is only one of eight branches of traditional yoga, which has been passed down for generations in ancient Indian philosophy.
It is thought that this style of Yoga can help to attain enlightenment. In this type of yoga, you will find the elements of Raga, Mantra, and Tantra, all of which are considered to be philosophical styles of Yoga, which are focused on elevating a personโs mental state.
Have you ever experienced enlightenment? Read 7 Stages Of Awakening You Have To Go Through Before Achieving Enlightenment
It is common for Hatha Yoga classes to ask their practitioners to follow certain dietary restrictions as well as ethical codes of living.
There are several different disciplines that you will find practiced in Hatha Yoga. However, due to its popularity, some classes may even teach a fusion of several different styles of yoga. Most of these hybrid yoga classes (especially those that include Hatha Yoga) are oftentimes the best for beginner Yoga practitioners, simply because they will offer a wider range of poses, breathing, and physical elements. These are needed to practice Yoga safely and get the most out of your workout.
While Hatha Yoga has increased in popularity within the western world, there are many other kinds that can be found here in the United States alone.ย
2. Ashtanga Vinyasa
This has emerged as one of the most popular forms of yoga in the last few years and is a physical and mentally challenging form of Yoga.
Ashtanga Vinyasa focuses on the unity between movement and breathing. However, this form of Yoga can be fairly taxing and shouldnโt be practiced by anyone with severe medical conditions.
If you are a beginner, it is imperative to join a beginnerโs Ashtanga class, so that you are able to learn at your own speed without posing an injury risk to yourself.
3. Sivananda Yoga
Sivananda yogaย is based around as little as twelve postures. One such posture sequence includes the very famous Sun Salutation or Surya Namaskar.
The Surya Namaskar poseย focuses on breathing and meditation. This is one of the most well-rounded yoga classes that can be found today. It is especially suitable for all levels of expertise, ages, and physical abilities, making it one of the most family-friendly forms of Yoga available.
Do you know the benefits of meditation for your mental health? Read 8 Mystical Meditation Mantra That Raise Your Consciousness
4. Vini Yoga
Another popular form of yoga is Vini Yoga, whichย is known for its personalized touch. Each session of Vini Yoga is tailored specially for the individual practitioner and their needs. These classes can vary from as short as fifteen minutes to two to three hours.
This is one of the best one-on-one yoga training that you can find. This is especially wonderful for anyone who might find it difficult to follow an instructor within a large class.
This class is particularly well suited for children and those with medical conditions. Simply because it is so personal, and allows the trainer to keep your body, health, and physical limitations in mind when creating your routine.
5. Iyengar Yoga
The last form of Yoga that is commonly practiced in the western world is Iyengar Yoga, which is a slower and more precise means of practicing Yoga. It is by far the most practiced yoga throughout the world (spanning not only in the western world).
It plays an important role in oneโs bodily alignment and posture. This is particularly well suited for those with back-pain or any other severe or chronic pain. This form of Yoga is also particularly suitable for seniors, as they practice with many different props to aid in their posture progression.
Remember, as with any new workout regimen that you should always know your own bodyโs limitation. This will help you to choose the right style of yoga class for you. There is no right or wrong answer, simply knowing what you can and cannot handle is key. Regardless of the class, you should come prepared, once you have chosen the right type of yoga for yourself.
Your Yoga instructor will be able to give you a list of the items you will need, whether it be yoga mats, blocks, blankets, or any other prop. It is best to come prepared!
The other popular types of yoga that you may have heard of are Power Yoga and Bikram Yoga. Power Yoga is a more aerobic-style Yoga, with an emphasis on cardio whereas, Bikram Yoga is a style of yoga performed in a heated room to accelerate detoxification.
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