Monday, July 20, 2009

Yoga Styles - Which is the Best Fit For You?
By James Anthony Peterson

People all over the world have discovered the powerful physical and mental benefits of yoga and yoga meditation. Yoga studios and classes as well as yoga DVDs, books, and home programs can be easily found online. However, before you roll out your yoga mat, get familiar with the many different types of yoga practices that are available to get the best fit for you:

Hatha Yoga: Hatha yoga refers to general yoga practice and includes other types of yoga, such as Iyengar and Ashtanga. General Hatha yoga classes focus on proper breathing, gentle movement, static poses, balance, relaxation, and centering.

Vinyasa Yoga: Vinyasa yoga is a dynamic, flowing form of yoga that focuses on connecting posture, or linking movement to breath. Many times Vinyasa yoga is performed in a heated room to induce sweating, detoxification, and purification.

Iyengar Yoga: Iyengar yoga focuses on alignment of the body and precise movements, Iyengar yoga instructors assist students in alignment of their body while promoting an inner awareness.
Many times blocks and straps are used to assist injured or less flexible students properly perform the poses. Iyengar yoga may be ideal for people with neck and back pain.

Ashtanga Yoga: Ashtanga yoga is also known as "power yoga", which uses flowing movements to increase strength and stamina. Pushup and lunge-like movements are common in this vigorous and athletic practice.

Bikram Yoga: Bikram yoga refers to yoga done in a hot environment (approximately 105 degrees Fahrenheit), which not only promotes a detoxifying sweat, but also aids in flexibility.

Prenatal Yoga: Prenatal yoga is yoga practice specifically designed for pregnant women who need exercises that are safe for them and their babies. Prenatal yoga also focuses on keeping muscles strong, which aids in posture and helps when delivery time comes. Yoga is an excellent way for expectant mothers to keep muscles toned, which not only makes them feel better during their pregnancy, but also helps them get back into shape faster after the baby is delivered.

Many yoga classes will combine several different styles of yoga to get the benefits of all the different practices, but not all programs use the same combinations. Yoga DVDs and other in-home programs are a great way to try different styles or focus on the style that best suits you.

James Peterson is a life-long athlete and the founder of Total Fitness Made Easy and MarketFox, LLC. James researches and searches for some of the best methods and products for total fitness of the mind and body. For some of his great health and exercise tips and information visit us at http://www.totalfitnessmadeeasy.com/
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