Methods, types, philosophy, benefits and risks
Introduction: What is Yoga and Who Practices it
Yoga is one of the most popular forms of exercise in the world nowadays. It is a physical, mental and spiritual practice originating in ancient India, and it has been around for about 5,000 years.
The word “yoga” comes from the Sanskrit word “yuj” which means “to yoke” or “to unite.” This refers to yoga’s ability to unite our mind with our body and spirit. Yoga is also known as a form of exercise that can be practiced by anyone regardless of age or fitness level.
Philosophy of Yoga
Yoga philosophy is based on the teachings of the Hindu sage Patanjali. At almost 2 centuries BCE, Patanjali wrote in his Yoga Sutras that yoga is not just exercise for the body but also includes mental discipline.
Yoga is a dualist philosophy, of mixing two fundamental realities: purusha and prakriti, that means “pure consciousness,” and “matter.”
The path of yoga should always ultimately target the “moksha” (spiritual liberation), highlighted by the ethical principles of “yamas” and “niyamas”. Those ethical principles set the side barriers of that path. Yamas describe the values that should be avoided, such as stealing, lying or violence, while niyamas outline the values that should be followed, such as purity, self-study and contemplation of God.
What are the Different Types of Yoga
https://elsol-lifestyle.com/el-sol-yoga/Yoga is a combination of physical postures, breathing techniques, and meditation or relaxation. There are different types of yoga based on the style, the duration and the purpose.
Find below the 11 major types of yoga:
- Vinyasa yoga.
- Hatha yoga.
- Iyengar yoga.
- Kundalini yoga.
- Ashtanga yoga.
- Bikram yoga.
- Yin yoga.
- Restorative yoga.
- Prenatal yoga.
- Anusara yoga and
- Jivamukti yoga
The most common type of yoga is Hatha Yoga which focuses on physical postures and breathing techniques. It is also called “yoga with control” because it aims to bring balance to body, mind and spirit by practicing poses in a slow and controlled way.
Bikram Yoga focuses on 26 postures that must be done in a specific order in an extremely hot room (around 40°C) for 90 minutes. This type of yoga can be very challenging, but it also helps with weight loss as well as improving flexibility.
Yoga Benefits & Why One Should Practice It
Yoga has many benefits, but some of the most important are improved fitness levels, better flexibility, increased strength and mental well-being.
The most unbelievable thing about it, is that a person can easily start practicing yoga at home with just one yoga mat!
In today’s fast-paced world where people are constantly on the go and have little time for themselves or their wellbeing, yoga provides an excellent way to reconnect with oneself.
Yoga Risks and How They Can Be Prevented
Yoga is a great way to relax and get in shape. But there are some risks that can come with it as with any other exercise or sport. One of the most common risks is injury, especially if you do yoga at home without any supervision or experience. So, what should you do?
If you have never done yoga before, make sure to take a class with someone experienced. el Sol-Lifestyle instructors will show you the best way to do it correctly. This will help reduce your risk of injury because you will be taught the proper form for each movement, and you will be able to tell when something feels wrong.
If you have been doing yoga for some time but still feel like your form needs improvement and enrichment, then again el Sol-Lifestyle and the private sessions will be adjusted to your exact level and needs.
How to Choose the Right Yoga Method for You?
It is very important to find the right yoga method for you. There is no one-size-fits-all yoga practice. You must find the one that suits your needs and personality at the moment.
Just to make it easier for you to choose your style, contact el Sol-Lifestyle directly and get a quote or event get trained under certified instructors.
