What is yoga?

Yoga is a Hindu discipline aimed at training the consciousness for a state of perfect spiritual insight and tranquility. It involves a series of exercises (stretches and poses) practiced to promote control of the body and mind. There are sitting and standing positions that focus on different muscles or on flexibility or balance. Many of the positions either relieve and open tight, tense places in the body, or isolate and work the muscles.

There are eight different types of yoga, known as limbs, but today most people only practice the third limb, the physical limb, called asana, the yoga of meditation.

Most yoga practice and instruction takes place in a classroom setting.  However, there are many DVDs and videos for those who prefer to learn and practice at home.

Yoga is accessible to participants of various ability levels. Consequently, in yoga classes you will often practice with a diverse group of people. It can be a great way to make new friends.

Benefits

Yoga can help improve the body’s strength, flexibility, and balance. In addition to its physical aspects, yoga is very much a mental discipline and can be very spiritual.

After a yoga practice, many feel physically and mentally refreshed and relaxed. As with many activities, practicing yoga releases endorphins into the blood stream, and enhance your sense of well being.

Different Styles of Yoga

There are many styles of yoga from which to choose, so it is important to find which one meets your fitness and other goals. Most yoga videos and DVDs contain a mix of different styles. Below is a list of various styles that are most commonly practiced in the Bay Area:

Ananda: This style has an emphasis on meditation. It is more still and centered, and does not involve as much exercise.

Anusara: The emphasis of this school is a set of "Universal Principles of Alignment" which underlie all postures, "heart opening" postures and the spiritual/meditative benefits of hatha yoga. Each person’s particular ability and limitations are highly respected.

Ashtanga: This is a form of yoga based on power of yoga. The flow of postures is much more rapid. This style involves less rest and more work. It is a more strenuous exercise that works the muscles, the heart and lungs.   

Bikram: This style turns up the heat…literally. It is a completely different experience. The temperature can be set up to 100 degrees, causing perspiration as you work through a series of standing poses that release bodily toxins. With the high heat, this practice can be very strenuous and challenging.

Integral: This style specializes in the healing power of relaxation. There is as much emphasis on physical poses as on meditation. This style is also used as a form of therapy through its chanting and bodily alignment exercises.

Iyengar: Symmetry and alignment are the focus of this style of yoga. Many props such as blocks and belts are used, and the exact positioning in postures is important.

Kripalu: This is the yoga of consciousness. There is great emphasis on proper breathing and alignment.

Kundalini:  This yoga has an awakening energy. Its emphasis is on chanting and breathing and the controlled release of energy.

Sivananda: This style of yoga encourages a healthy lifestyle. The poses increase flexibility and strength, and there is a focus on diet, positive thinking, and meditation.