A spiritual practice, developed around 2700 BC in India, has now become a vital part of fitness enthusiasts. In ancient times, yoga was a synonym for stimulating spirituality. However, it has changed now as it is seen as a way to attain sound health, peace of mind and enhanced concentration, In this article, we will lay emphasis on its types and benefits.
Types of Yoga
Sivananda
It involves 12 basic asanas followed by sun salutations (surya namaskar) and savasana (relax pose). It lays emphasis on the significance of proper diet, breathing, exercise, relaxation and positive thinking.
Ashtanga Yoga
It includes eight forms asana (posture), pranayama (breathing), niyama (observances), yamas (abstinences), pratyahara (withdrawal), dharana (concentration), dhyana (contemplation) and samadhi (union).
Power Yoga
Also known as vinyasa yoga, it is derived from ashtanga yoga. It is popular amongst athletes as well as people facing cardiovascular issues because of its ability to expedite the process of calorie burning.
Hatha yoga
It involves a magical blend of unparalleled physical postures (asanas) and breathing movements (pranayama) to deliver flexibility, strength, concentration and reduced stress levels.
Kripalu Yoga
It is a much gentle form of hatha yoga wherein disciples learn at their pace without worrying about attaining the perfection in a limited time frame.
Lyengar Yoga
It aims at correct alignment of yoga asanas by allowing the usage of props such as belts, blocks, chairs, bolsters and blankets. This feature makes it popular among beginners, elderly and differently abled individuals.
Restorative Yoga
Incorporating deep breathing and restful poses, this yoga is prevalent in today’s times as people look for options to combat psychological disorders such as stress, anxiety and insomnia.
Kundalini Yoga
Associated to singing, chanting, pranayama and repeated set of postures, this form of yoga is said to stimulate seven energy centres (chakras) of the body.
Vini Yoga
It is an appropriate amalgamation of asanas, pranayamas (breathing), bandhas (holding the breath), chants and meditation.
Yin Yoga
Developed around 2000 years ago in the regions of China and Taiwan, it is commonly performed to cure pertaining bones, joints, ligaments, fascia and deep tissues.
Bikram Yoga
Discovered by Bikram Choudhary, also referred to as ‘hot yoga’ is practised in artificially heated spaces wherein the temperature and humidity remain constant at 41 degrees and 40%, respectively.
Prenatal Yoga
As the name suggests, this yoga teaches best poses to pregnant ladies, ensuring smooth labour and excellent health of baby.
Benefits
· Improves Endurance and Flexibility
· Reduces Stress
· Increases Resistance to Diseases
· Strengthens Circulatory, Respiratory and Nervous System
· Offers Remarkable Mobility
· Lowers Psychological Disorders Such as Insomnia and Depression
· Promotes Stability and Posture
· Fortifies Muscles and Bones
· Alleviates Pain
· Better Quality of Life
Where allopathy fails, yoga prevails by lowering the risk of many lifestyle diseases. Many studies have been conducted and are still being conducted where yoga disciples demonstrated sound physical and mental health compared to individuals involved in other fitness activities. Contrary to yoga, other fitness activities only deal with physical health ignoring the mental health. At zarooribaathai.in, we care for you and wish to equip you with the best.
