What is yoga?

Yoga is way to energize our body and soul. Yoga is derived from a Sanskrit word “yuj” which means working of physical body and mind together. Yoga is most likely developed around 6^th or 5^th B.C. Origin of yoga can be guessed around pre-vedic era in India.

Among many yoga teachings Yoga sutras by Patanjali have gained prominence in 20^th century. Yoga was brought to west by Indian yoga gurus like Swami Ramdeva, Swami Vivekananda.

11 December is celebrated as International Yoga Day.

Types of Yoga:

   1. Hatha Yoga

 “Hatha” is a Sanskrit word which means force. It includes all types of yoga. Usually classes with hatha yoga are structured for beginners or neophytes. In class of hatha yoga you will learn basic aasans/postures, breath work and mind control.

2. Vinyasa Yoga

“vinyasa” is a Sanskrit word which means “connection.” This yoga will teach you warrior poses, balancing poses and relaxation aasanas/postures. Yoga practice will move through different transitions from one phase to another. Vinyasa yoga will be available in both rigorous and gentle way. If you’re a neophyte, look for a gentle flow.

3. Bikram Yoga

Bikram yoga was developed by Bikram Choudhury. This yoga is type of Vinyasa yoga. Bikram yoga focuses on sweat dripping postures. It has 26 postures to be performed in sequential order.

4. Iyengar Yoga

Iyengar Yoga will help build strength, mobility, and stability. Iyengar yoga poses are held longer, as you breathe into a pose to find more expansion. You have to use of a variety of blocks, straps, and blankets, to make sure you find the correct aasana/posture in each pose.

5. Kundalini Yoga
Kundalini yoga’s main focus is on pranayama i.e. breath work. Kundalini is best style of yoga to develop the mind, awareness, and consciousness. Each pose in Kundilini is associated with a different breathing technique, mudras i.e. hand gestures.