Practise good breathing technique for a better health

- by The Washington Post

Here is a guide to a few of the more common forms taught in the United States. All of the following are varieties of hatha yoga, whose focus is to unite body and mind via physical movement, controlled breathing and relaxation. Individual teachers and schools often combine some of these styles and others into their practices.

An excellent source for more information on these styles and many more is found at http://www.yogajournal.com . Click on "Yoga 101."

Ashtanga Yoga Some versions of this style are marketed as "power yoga," and it is the most physically demanding form. The emphasis is on building strength, stamina and dynamic flexibility. Not for beginners.

Bikram Yoga Practiced in a room heated to 100 to 105 degrees, this style warms muscles and connective tissues, permitting deeper stretches. A session consists of 26 postures, each held for 20 to 30 seconds. The resulting sweat is said to release toxins. Consultation with a physician is often recommended before undertaking a Bikram session.

Iyengar Yoga Uses specialized paraphernalia such as straps and blocks to encourage rigorous precision of postures, which are held for long periods. It is often promoted to relieve ailments and reduce injury risk, particularly for those with movement restrictions. One of the most popular forms in the United States.

Kripalu Yoga Focuses on the use of meditation to move through exercises, beginning with brief poses in proper alignment, then doing the poses for an extended period, and finally progressing to a meditative state in which you move through poses intuitively.

Viniyoga A gentle form of yoga less concerned with perfect form and more with accommodating one's capabilities. Progress of the practice is linked to personal and spiritual development. A good choice for those with movement restrictions.

Source: http://www.washingtonpost.com