Yoga for Exercise
The number of types of yoga are too numerous to count, but here in the West, there are quite a few types of yoga that were developed
specifically for their exercise benefits. Types of yoga for exercise are many and
varied, so here; we'll focus on the most popular.
Bikram: In Bikram yoga, you will definitely sweat. Every studio is close to 100° Fahrenheit, because the goal is to get you to sweat.
When you sweat, you secrete
toxins from the blood, allowing for better circulation. The postures, of course, have all the benefits of any
yoga class, but if you're not sweating, it's not Bikram yoga.
Designed by Bikram Choudhury, in each
Bikram class, you should do a series of 26 traditional Hatha postures in order to encourage
proper functioning in each bodily system.
Iyengar: B.K.S. Iyengar at 80 years old may be the most famous living yogi. The
focus of his type of yoga is the details of each posture.
In Iyengar yoga, each pose is held longer than in other types, allowing the student to really benefit from each stretch fully. One of the
most popular
types of yoga in the US, Iyengar yoga also utilizes props like blocks, bolsters, belts, and blankets to help students
sustain positions.
Power Yoga: Bender Birch created Power yoga in order to introduce the west to a
yoga practice similar to that of Ashtanga Yoga.
Power yoga is challenging, requiring energy and stamina as it is a constant movement through many series of poses. The classes are
rigorous and focus on developing the
student's strength and flexibility at a fast pace.
Ashtanga: Ashtanga yoga is a series of postures practiced quickly and with precision. The six series of asanas that are the focus of
Ashtanga are not for
beginners, as each one is more difficult than the last.
No matter which style of yoga you choose to practice, all of them are a form of exercise. Whether strenuous or not, the physical
benefits of yoga are a great way to work out each day.
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Yoga for Relaxation
Yoga, based upon the principle of combining the mind with the body, provides a simple, but effective, form of relaxation. Life is hectic
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