Introduction
The term Yoga is a 3000-5000 year old teaching originating from India, which consists of breathing exercises, meditations and the physical exercises also known in the West. Yoga is enjoying increasing popularity, which can be measured by the growing number of yoga studios. In addition to the sporty aspect of the asanas (exercises), yoga is said to have a positive effect on numerous physical and mental ailments, some of which have been scientifically proven.
What forms of Yoga are there?
There are many different styles of yoga, which differ mainly in how long the individual exercises are held and whether there is additional equipment. Yoga is not a rigid system, but is subject to constant change and new forms are added. Some popular yoga styles are briefly introduced below: Hatha Yoga is especially popular in German-speaking countries and is characterized by the slow and relaxed execution of the asanas and is therefore especially suitable for beginners.
Vinyasa Yoga focuses on the synchronicity of breath and flow of movement. The exercises are usually a bit more strenuous than in Hatha Yoga and end with a stretching session. Ashtanga Yoga is characterized by the always same sequence of asanas, which flow into each other.
It forms the basis of power yoga, but the sequence is different. Bikram Yoga (Hot Yoga) is very popular in America and is performed in a room heated to 40°C. Through increased sweating, the detoxification of the body should be promoted.
A Bikram Yoga class consists of 26 exercises. Iyengar Yoga focuses on the alignment of the body during the asanas. Because of the fast transition between the exercises this yoga style is quite dynamic.
Yin Yoga is a particularly gentle yoga practice that is becoming increasingly popular in Europe. The asanas are held for a very long time and the focus is also directed to the joints.
- Hatha Yoga is especially popular in the German-speaking countries and is characterized by the slow and relaxed execution of the asanas and is therefore especially suitable for beginners.
- Vinyasa Yoga focuses on the synchronicity of breath and movement flow.
The exercises are usually a bit more strenuous than in Hatha Yoga and end with a stretching session.
- Ashtanga Yoga is characterized by the always same sequence of asanas, which flow into each other. It forms the basis of power yoga, but the sequence is different.
- Bikram Yoga (Hot Yoga) is very popular in America and is performed in a room heated to 40°C. Through increased sweating, the detoxification of the body should be promoted.
A Bikram Yoga class consists of 26 exercises.
- Iyengar Yoga focuses on the alignment of the body during the asanas. Because of the fast transition between the exercises this yoga style is quite dynamic.
- Yin Yoga is a particularly gentle yoga practice, which is also becoming increasingly popular in Europe. The asanas are held for a very long time and the focus is also directed to the joints.