Namaste

(Image courtesy of doniree.com)

I hear many people say that they would love to try YOGA but are intemidated because:

• they don't think they are flexible enough
• they have an injury or chronic pain and don't think they will be able to do what is asked of them
• they are worried that they will be asked to chant and meditate the entire time
• there are so many different types and they don't know where to begin
• "I don't want to be the only guy in the class"

It sounds like the better question is WHY NOT practice YOGA??? These benefits are amazing and are a great way to enhance your typical fitness regimine. Improving flexibility, strength, and balance can be linked to better athletic performance and decreased risk of injury.I have also found that YOGA is the perfect way to de-stress and improve my mood... which I'm sure my family and friends appreciate!

These are common fears and I hope that the following information will help you decide to give YOGA a try, and help you determine which type of yoga is the best fit for you.

What is YOGA??? Yoga is an ancient art form based on developing the mind, body, and spirit which through continuous practice leads you to peace and well-being.

Why should I pactice YOGA???

• Improved strength, posture, balance, flexibility, energy level, and endurance
• Improved sleep, GI function, endocrine function, cardiovascular efficiency
• Decreased pulse, respiratory rate, and blood pressure
• Improved dexterity, eye-hand coordination, and reaction time
• Improved memory, concentration, attention span, and cognitive functioning
• Decreased anxiety, depression, and hostility

Which type of YOGA is right for me???

Iyengar- Soft on the body, uses props to compensate for decreased flexibility, great for beginners or those with back/joint problems, stronger focus on alignment and meditation

Ashtanga (Power Yoga)- helps develop strength and stamina, light on the meditation, great for athletes, continuous flow of movement with a focus on breath control

Bikram- room kept at 100.4 degrees F or higher to replicate the temperature in India, the birthplace of yoga, physically demanding, a set routine of 26 postures that must be performed in a certain order, great for fit individuals looking for a physical challenge

Hatha- mellow yoga that allows you to flow through poses at your own pace, focusing on breathing and meditation, great for winding down at the end of a workout

Kundalini- incorporates chanting, visualizations, meditations, and guided relaxations, great for those dealing with addictions as it 'purifies' the body

Kripalu- continuous flow of postures with a focus on meditation throughout the session

Sivananda- series of 12 poses involving the sun salutation, relaxation, breath control, and chanting, a great way to begin your day

Viniyoga- slower more individualized yoga focusing on strength and balance, ideal for beginners, seniors, and those with injuries

Raja-yoga- involves intense concentration with the goal of "liberation through meditation"

Bhakti-yoga- a form of devotional yoga focusing on self- surrender to 'the Divine'

Mantra-yoga- verbal or mental repitition of sounds to empower the individual

***Thank you YOGA Online Mind & Body for the great information!