Know different types of Yoga and their benefits

Yoga  eliminates stress and anxiety and improve balance and strength. There are actually dozens of different types of yoga.

Here are seven types of yoga which is best for whole body and mind.

Hatha

Hatha is a general form of yoga that focuses on posture. Many sub-categories of yoga fall under the umbrella of Hatha.

Vinyasa

Vinyasa is a fun, light-hearted form of yoga that mixes intense work-outs with peaceful poses. Music usually replaces the silence heard in most yoga classes and the poses are designed to flow from one to the next. In fact, “Vinyasa” is the Sanskrit word for “flow.”

Ashtanga

Ashtanga is an ancient practice. Ashtanga yoga incorporates little meditation but instead uses fast and physically demanding routines. Every movement is linked a specific breath, giving the session a certain rhythm. The order of the routine’s moves stays consistent every single time. Ashtanga is a good style of yoga for those used to rigorous physical exercise and generally feel comfortable with the basic concepts of yoga.

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Iyengar

Iyengar yoga is very focused, and almost always practised with a teacher. It’s one the  main branches of yoga to incorporate as many props as it does, and it’s not uncommon to use chairs, ropes, blankets, blocks or straps. These props make it an ideal practice for those with special conditions or disabilities. Another thing that sets Iyengar apart is the attention you put to your muscles and body with each pose. Poses are generally held much longer in Iyengar yoga than any other branch. Iyengar is void of any cardio-like exercise but builds extreme strength through holding poses for so long.

Bikram

Bikram is extremely unique in that it’s the only kind of yoga exclusively held in hot, artificially heated rooms. This ensures that you’ll work up a great sweat. Each pose is very distinct and they’re expected to be done in a specific order to stay true to the Bikram style.

Anusara

Anusara yoga was introduced in 1997, making it one of the newest and most popular branches of yoga. It uses components of the Iyengar style but is generally more health-oriented. Despite being developed recently in America, Anusara is still very spiritual in its roots, focusing on opening and closing mantras, muscular and organic energy.

Jivamukti

Of all of the popular styles of yoga commonly practised in the U.S., Jivamukti is the most spiritual. They offer beginner classes, which introduce the class to standard poses and simple meditation. More advanced classes focus on a particular theme of yoga each week and introduce poses to relate to the theme. In terms of meditation and spirituality, Jivamukti incorporates readings, chants and music.