Types of yoga

Many different types of yoga have emerged over its long history, so that one particular style cannot be representative of all the others. Each of the types of yoga has its roots in a way of practice that was once laid out by a yoga master. Over time, yoga successors have adapted traditional forms to meet their needs, and those of their students. The wide range of types of yoga on offer, ensures that there is something for everyone, from beginners to athletes.

HATHA

Hatha yoga is a mellow form that is often practised as a method of winding down at the end of a tough day. While focussing on breath and meditation, those who practice Hatha follow simple poses that flow from one to another at a comfortable pace.

IYENGAR

The classical Iyengar style is gentler on the body than other approaches. Perfect for beginners, those who haven't exercised in awhile, or advanced practitioners seeking to refresh fundamental technique, Iyengar is a slow practice that pays attention to the details within each of the poses. Props such as chairs, blocks, belts, or elastics are often used to compensate for a lack of flexibility, making it the recommended practice for those with back and joint problems. By focussing on alignment and inner awareness, Iyengar practice tones muscles, eliminates tension and eases chronic pain. Iyengar is the ideal way build stamina, correct alignment and acquire the fundamentals of each of the poses that are practised in quicker succession throughout all types of yoga.

ACTING (POWER YOGA)

The preferred choice of athletes, Ashtanga yoga concentrates primarily on building stamina. Ashtanga is a physically demanding workout that moves quickly, from one difficult pose to another, building strength, flexibility and stamina. Ashtanga is characterised by a continual flow of movement in combination with rhythmic breathing. This practice often takes place in heated rooms to encourage muscle warmth and a deeper practice.

BIKRAM

Originated by Bikram Choudhury, Bikram is practised in a room heated to 38 degrees Celsius or higher, in order to replicate yoga's birthplace, India. Bikram is a very high intensity workout practised by yoga veterans and the extremely fit. It requires great stamina to endure the heat while practising a series of twenty-six poses. The poses are practised in a particular order, that warms and stretches muscles, ligaments, and tendons, in the order they should be.

KUNDALINI

Kundalini practice incorporates mantras (chanting), meditations, and visualisations to guide relaxation. With a focus on healing and purifying the mind, body and emotions, this practice activates Kundalini energy in the spine.