What Are the Different Types of Yoga?
With literally hundreds of styles and variations, the different types of yoga would fill an entire book. As such, the scope of this article focuses on the different styles of hatha yoga. Hatha yoga, which focuses on physical purification, meditation and the rhythm of the breath, is the most widely practiced form of yoga in the U.S.
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Hatha
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Ashtanga is an intensive, vigorous style of hatha yoga. It involves six specific poses that must be executed in sequence. The goal is to create a physically demanding flow of movement that heats the body.
Vinyasa
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Vinyasa, which literally means "wind," also involves flowing movements. Unlike the ashtanga teachers, vinyasa instructors mix up poses and create sequences that are fitting for the individuals in the class. A vinyasa yoga practice consists of many sun salutations and focuses on linking bodily movement with the flow of the breath.
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Bikram
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Bikram yoga is often referred to as "hot yoga," or "yoga boot camp." This style of yoga, which consists of 26 different poses, is commonly practiced in a room heated to 100 degrees Fahrenheit. Introduced by Bikram Choudhury, this practice is highly intensive and aims to detoxify the body. Bikram yoga was derived from the ashtanga practice, but does not follow a specific sequence.
Inyengar
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Iyengar is a slow yoga practice. Inyenger students focus closely on good, strong posture. The breath is not as central to iyengar yoga as it is to other styles. Instead, the emphasis is on the pose and stretch. Props are routinely used to allow students to delve deeper into the pose and stay there for extended periods of time.
Kundalini
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Kundalini yoga practitioners hope to release the energy stored at the base of the spine. Kundalini practices involve fast, repetitive movements and rapid "breath of fire" chanting.
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References
- Photo Credit Image by Flickr.com, courtesy of Rama V
