Which Yoga Practice is Best For You?

Mind is All

Have you considered taking a yoga class, but are intimidated by the many types of yoga? There are many types of yoga, some of which are widely available and some of which are only taught at specialized yoga studios. The following descriptions will help you get a feel for the many types of yoga available.

Ashtanga yoga is the root of yoga, and as such is considered trustworthy and honorable. Ashtanga is athletically demanding but paced such that you will work through a series of asana while breathing through the movements. An Astanga yoga practice will require you to master one set of asana before you are promoted to the next level.

Power yoga is the Westernized version that is probably being taught at the fitness center near you. Poses may or may not be more athletically demanding than some of those in Ashtanga yoga, and there are no set ways to teach or learn Power yoga. The poses may be presented in an athletically challenging order or pace, or they may be toned down to suit a gentler audience, depending on the instructor's preference.

Bikram yoga is practiced in heated rooms that may reach over 100 degrees Fahrenheit. Bikram yoga moves fast, is very physically demanding, and always follows the same routine, which includes breathing exercises.

Dahn yoga is a modern version of yoga, founded by Ilchi Lee back in 1985. This form of yoga combines yoga poses with other martial arts techniques. The focus of the practice is to awaken the chi, freeing the energy flow through the chakras.

Another recently new type of yoga practice is Anasara yoga, developed by John Friend in the late nineties. The poses in Anasara yoga are incredibly smooth and graceful, and the focus of the practice is to align yourself spiritually with the Universe in an attempt to pursue the ultimate goodness of intention.

In your pursuit of the best yoga practice, you may want to read up the practices in more detail or try out a DVD.