11 Styles of Yoga & Everything Else That You Need to Know About As a Beginner

Are you looking for an activity that will allow you to steer clear of the stresses in your life, while maintaining the balance and harmony of your body? This is what yoga is all about. In layman's term, this is the discipline of stretching and toning your body through breathing techniques, exercises, posture, diet and relaxation techniques. Basically, the goal of this activity is to maintain control of your own body and mind.

Read on to find out more about it, its different types and tips for beginners.

Yoga for Beginners, Anyone?

If you see a room full of individuals undergoing advanced classes, you might be intimidated at the complicated poses that they make. This is the reason why there is a different set of poses and exercises which are meant for beginners.

Basically, a beginner's class will give you a preview of what the discipline is all about. Probably the only thing that you need is a mat and a willingness to learn about the basics.

Different Strokes for Different Folks: 11 Types of Yoga

After graduating from beginner's class, there are different paths that you can pursue. Take a look at the 9 different types that you can consider studying:

1. Ananda - this type focuses more on meditation techniques.
2. Anusara - the thrust of the yogic exercises involved in Anusara Yoga is oriented towards the heart.
3. Ashtanga - also known as the power of yoga, Ashtanga follows a series of steps and poses which are vigorous and quite athletic.
4. Bikram - this is also known as Fire Yoga or Hot Yoga, a style developed by Bikram Choudhury which practiced in a heated and humidified room.
5. Integral Yoga - this type focuses on the healing power of relaxation.
6. Iyngar - the center of study in this type is symmetry and alignment.
7. Kripalu - this style of yogic exercises deals with the 'yoga of consciousness'.
8. Kundalini - the focus of this style is to awaken one's energy.
9. Sivanada - if you want to live a healthier lifestyle, this is the style to go for.
10. Tantra - ideal for couples, this type deals with sensual spirituality.
11. Viniyoga - focuses on a gentle flow of the energies within the mind, body and spirit.

No matter which type of yogic exercises it is that you will go for, they all seek to create that delicate balance between the body, the mind and the spirit.

Outarow Chuong has been involved in alternative health since 1997, and is currently writing health articles related to anti wrinkle cream, and anti aging wrinkle cream.