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Popular Yoga Style Guide - Nine
Styles, in Order of Popularity
Introduction
The term `Yoga’ generally
refers to variations of the Hatha Yoga practice of physical
postures (asana) for health and experience of well-being.
In the west, generally, there tends to be less of a spiritual
approach and the focus is more physical with stretching,
strengthening and breathing.
There are many different styles of Hatha
Yoga available. Most are variations in aerobic quality, sequencing
of postures, breath control, room temperature, alignment,
use of props or in some cases meditation, philosophy and
chanting.
Most classes consist of a series of
static postures or asanas. Some postures are practiced standing,
laying down or are inverted. One posture, Salutation to the
Sun, is a dynamic aerobic stretching series of movements.
Using the guide below, choose a style
or styles that seem to fit with your personality, level of
fitness, your goals and your overall condition (Pre/Post
natal, injuries, medical concerns). An attempt has been made
to differentiate the styles from one another for comparison
sake, however all styles have much in common.
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GOOD ALL-AROUND APPROACH |
It is the most popular form of Yoga. Usually a Hatha Yoga class is a good
entry into learning the postures and starting a practice and is not particularly
aligned with any specialized style described elsewhere in this guide. Hatha
Yoga classes are generally thought to be a gentler than others. Many local
classes will fit into this category, as well as ones taught in Gyms, Healthclubs
and Adult schools. One notable practitioner in this category is Eric
Schiffman. Although this Yoga master does not have his own
brand of yoga with studios across the county, he has a deep and interesting
approach. There are many great instructional
DVD's and Books in this general style.
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AEROBIC,
VIGOROUS |
The Ashtanga Yoga style features several set sequencies of postures, flowing
at a vigorous pace, designed to build flexibility strength and stamina. Practitioners
synchronize their breath with the postures and focus on continuity of movement
and elimination of toxins through body heat. David Swenson, Jivamukti, Richard
Freeman, and Shiva Rea promote variations of Ashtanga.
Introduced to the west
by Patabai Jois.
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Also see the
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CORRECT
ALIGNMENT OF THE POSTURES |
Iyengar Yoga is primarily focused on precise posture alignment, held for
longer periods of time, along with mental discipline to experience the
full benefits of yoga. Assistive props are frequently used to help hold
the postures for beginners. Iyengar principles are used by other styles.
Teachers undergo especially rigorous training and may also be certified
in yoga
therapeutics. The Iyengar style was developed by B.K.S. Iyengar.
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AEROBIC,
VIGOROUS |
Power yoga is a derivative of Ashtanga and is similar except the sequences
may vary widely for each class, but they maintain the emphasis on strength
and flexibility with breath, and are a bit less focused on alignment. Brian
Kest, Beryl
Bender Birch and Baron
Baptiste promote different
versions of Power Yoga.
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HOT, CLEANSING |
Bikram Yoga is based on 26 traditional Hatha Yoga postures specially
sequenced, beginning with Sun Salutations. Classes are given in heated rooms
reaching 90 - 105 degrees and humidity at 60%. Practitioners sweat to remove
toxins. Frequently referred to as `Hot Yoga’. Began
in the west by Bikram Choudhury in
1971.
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ALIGNMENT, SOMEWHAT
AEROBIC, GOODNESS INSIDE |
Anusara Yoga combines a strong focus on precise alignment of the postures
with a corresponding philosophy of believing in the intrinsic goodness of
the individual. Many certified teachers are trained in therapeutics. Anusara
means “flowing with Grace,” “going with the flow,” “following
your heart”. Founded by John Friend in 1997.
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SPIRITUAL
WITH LIFESTYLE |
Sivananda Yoga focuses on proper postures, there being 12 in
particular, proper breathing (Pranayama), proper relaxation (Savasana),
proper diet (Vegetarian), positive thinking and meditation (Dhyana). Chanting
and meditation are emphasized. Brought to the west in 1957 by Swami
Vishnudevananda.
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SPIRITUAL,
HOLISTIC, TAILORED TO YOU |
Kriplau combines postures with a focus on alignment, breath, mind-body awareness
and with a special emphasis on meditation. There is no set sequence of postures.
There is a methodology for releasing long held tension and emotional blockages
through this style. There are three tiers of practice in Kripalu Yoga. Beginning
Kripalu classes focus on the first tier of postural alignment with breath
and movement. Second tier classes focus on holding the postures and releasing
emotion and mental tensions and the opening of the heart. Third tier classes
expand into letting an inner prompting direct the sequencing and duration
of the poses.
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GENTLE
DEEP POSTURES, TAILORED TO YOU |
This deep and gentle yoga features pose sequences that are synchronized
with the breath. There is a focus on the spine and using minimal effort
in bringing the body into pose alignment. The focus is on each individual
as sequences are tailored to each persons needs and abilities. There is
also an emphasis on Therapeutics. This style incorporates chanting, pranayama
(breath
work),
and meditation. Created by Krishnamacharya and
perpetuated by T.K.V. Desikachar and Indra
Devi.
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