What is Yoga?

What is Yoga?

If you have never practiced yoga then you probably do not know what yoga is all about and why the craze over it. This article looks at the different yoga styles to understand their similarities and differences and how to choose the right yoga style that fits your taste and fitness level.

Yoga Postures

Yoga is essentially a series of postures or poses done with controlled breathing. It is basically a low-impact exercise which involved some meditation. It is relaxing and yet invigorating.

Yoga is not just about stretching. It is about strength and flexibility.

Yoga can be done by anyone, from babies to mature adults. Different people can practice yoga differently. It is possible to tailor suit it to each individual's fitness level and needs.

Yoga Styles

There are so many styles of yoga around. Many of them may involve essentially the same poses but what differentiate them are their emphasis.

The most common and popular yoga styles include: Power Yoga, Hatha, Vinyasa, Bikram (or Hot Yoga), Ashtanga, Kundalini, Anusara, Iyengar, Jivamukti, Sivananda, Forrest and Integral.

It is not important which style of yoga you choose to undertake as the underlying principle to all yoga is the same. It is about flexibility, strength, balance and relaxation. Yoga tries to achieve spiritual well being through meditation.

Choosing the Right Yoga Style

Each different style of yoga usually emphasizes on one area: whether physical, breathing or spiritual.

Every style of yoga is good for your health. The choice of style depends largely on personal taste and fitness level.

Whatever yoga style you choose, it is yours to practice and you can personalized it to you. After some time, you will get something out of it that other people can't. Yoga is something that will grow with you as you practice it more with each pose being different to you each time you practice.