The World’s Most Popular Types of Yoga
Yoga is the physical art of relaxation and meditation, and has been practised around the world for thousands of years. It takes years to truly master a type of yoga, and many believe that it can lead you to a sense of self-awareness and happiness that few other types of exercise can.
Apart from the spiritual side to yoga, there are also physical benefits, such as stress-relief and deep relaxation, and because the art itself is on such a broad spectrum, there is a type for just about any kind of person. Choosing the right kind of yoga for yourself can depend on a few factors, such as temperament, level of experience, and the personal goals that you set yourself.
If you’re looking to find a type of yoga to start, and to give yourself a brief break from the modern distractions of television, movies, and betting sites, these are some of the more common ones worth giving a try.
- Ashtanga Yoga
This is a more challenging, athletic type of yoga that focuses on controlled breathing and focus points. It’s aimed at those looking for a more meditative experience, and comes with some of the most difficult poses that the world of yoga has to offer.
- Hatha Yoga
Hatha yoga is defined by its simplicity, and focuses on asanas and pranayama breathing, both of which are used to create a meditative state that leaves you feeling relaxed and euphoric. It’s a great yoga for beginners, as it introduces you to some easy postures.
- Hot Yoga
Hot yoga refers to any kind of yoga that is practised in a warm environment, and is best suited for the hotter months of the year. The heat is meant to increase the intensity of the sessions, as well as adding an element of detoxification. Many yoga masters believe that hot yoga is also great for those people who aren’t quite as flexible as they wish they were, as it can help improve core posture exercises.
- Power Yoga
This is a general term for more fitness-based, vinyasa methods of yoga, and is closely related to the traditional ashtanga method. The most popular of power yoga is the Baptiste style, one that has grown much more popular in recent years, especially in western countries like the United States.
- Restorative Yoga
Restorative yoga involves supportive and long-held poses that feature various props, such as blankets, blocks, and bolsters. There are usually five or six poses that are completed at a time, each one lasting around five minutes. It’s aimed at calming the nervous system, decreasing the heart rate, and lowering stress levels.
- Yin Yoga
Yin yoga is similar to the previous entry, and involves the practise of long-held postures and stretches. Yin Yoga is used to release tension and stress in the body and muscles, allowing for cleansing of not just the body, but of consciousness, too.