As an ancient Indian holistic science of movement, yoga has garnered a popular following in the Western world for its health-giving benefits, stress relieving techniques.
Different yoga styles have evolved over the years, differing slightly yet all aiming to help the yoga practitioner attain better health, quality sleep.
Here is a basic guide to some of the most commonly practiced forms of yoga, which will hopefully help point you in the right direction:
Hatha Yoga is most commonly associated with yoga as a form of exercise, rather than pure meditation practice. Classes may consist of gentle postures and slow stretching.
Ashtanga Yoga is one of the most physically demanding of the yoga styles. Participants are encouraged to constantly move through a set order of postures at a fast pace.
Bikram Yoga or hot yoga is performed in a heated environment, with the aim to perform a set number of postures in order cleanse the body through perspiration.
Raja Yoga is the form of yoga that considers the mind as the most important instrument. It focuses on meditation to bring the life into balance.
