Yoga: Finding a Style that Fits You
There are several different styles or schools of yoga each based on the use of asana, pranayma and meditation but each also emphasizing different characteristics of the practice such as flow, pacing, strict alignment, philosophy.
What all of these styles or approaches to yoga share in common is the goal of unifying body, mind and breath. The difference is the path each takes to get you there. Some approaches are quite regimented paying strict attention to form, strict alignment of poses and the flow of the poses. Other approaches focus on the use of props, while others like to heat the room to 105 degrees so that participants become bathed in sweat as they go deep in their practice. If you are drawn to the philosophical aspect of yoga and you yearn for a more devotional approach with chanting, meditation and visualization, you can find that as well.
Read through these brief descriptions to find a style that appeals to you. Then dig a little deeper. Do some research. Read some books on that approach. Visit a few different yoga studios and try out different classes. Most yoga studios offer a free or reduced price for your first visit. You will know it when you have found the right yoga style and teacher for you.
Ananda yoga is focused on using affirmations, and using asana as a preparation for meditation.
Anusara is a new approach to yoga that was developed by John Friend in 1997. It is focused on the heart, and on working within each student’s level of ability.
Ashtanga is an athletic approach comprised of 240 poses performed in six vinyasa series linking breath and movement to detoxify the body while building strength, stamina and increasing flexibility.
Bikram yoga, also often referred to as ‘hot yoga’ because it is performed in a room heated to 105 degrees, was developed by Bikram Choudhry. Bikram is an intense workout comprised of 26 poses and pranayma performed in strict order in a heated room.
Integral yoga has a focus on meditation and combines all aspects of yoga in a more regimented approach.
Iynegar yoga is a school of yoga developed by B.K.S. Iyengar, which focuses on careful attention to refining alignment and the use of props.
Kripalu yoga is a moving meditation approach where poses are held for extended periods of time.
Kundalini yoga uses the breath, asana, meditation, chanting to move energy through the chakras.
Sivananda is a gentle yoga focusing on an overall healthy lifestyle including meditation, visualization, chanting and a vegetarian diet.
These are only a few of the many different yoga styles available. Explore and take the time to find the one that is right for you. Yoga can improve you life in countless ways. Following the approach that works best for you is the first step on this healthful path.
