HATHA YOGA
There are 8 limbs of Yoga: ethical principals (yama), rules of personal
conduct, (niyama), postures (asanas), breathing techniques (pranayama),
control of the senses (pratyahara), concentration of the mind (dharana),
meditation (dhyana) and absorption in the Infinite (samadhi). Hatha
yoga refers to asana practice and is what the general public thinks
of as “yoga” – physical postures.
Ananda or Kriya Yoga
Paramhansa Yogananda brought to America teachings and techniques specifically
designed for spiritual awakening. He called his path Kriya Yoga, and
it includes four major techniques: Energization Exercises, the Hong-Sau
technique of concentration, AUM meditation, and the Kriya technique.
For more information: www.expandinglight.org
Anusara
Created by John Friend. Anusara yoga is an integrated approach with
blends human spirit with the precise science of biomechanics. It differentiates
itself from other hatha yoga systems by focusing on three areas: Attitude
– the practitioner “opens to grace” and aspires
to an awakening of her or his true nature. Alignment – Each
pose is performed with an awareness of inner and outer body alignment.
Action – Muscular stability is balanced with an expansive inner
freedom.
For more information: www.anusara.com
Ashtanga
Developed by yoga master K. Pattabhi Jois. Ashtanga is series of postures
in a fast-paced continuous flow. An athletic style of yoga featuring
six series of asanas, which increase in difficulty. For more information:
www.ayri.org
Bikram
Bikram Choudhury designed this sequence of 26 traditional hatha yoga
postures. Each class consists of the same sequence. It is often referred
to as “hot yoga”, because it is done in a 100-degree room
to warm muscles and flush out toxins. Dress light, and bring water
and a towel. For more information: www.bikramyoga.com
Day Star Method
Day-Star is a gentler form of yoga, applying effort and rest equally.
Emphasis is placed on experiencing the poses slowly, without pain,
and with mindful breathing. A typical class incorporates a full menu
of forward and backward bends, lateral and twisting postures, inversions
and balancing poses, all done with attention to the breath. For more
information, email daystaryoga@aol.com
Integral
Swami Satchidananda introduced this yoga. The philosophy is “an
easeful body, a peaceful mind, and a useful life.” Integral
is a gentler form of yoga balancing physical effort and relaxation.
Classes include guided relaxation, breathing practices, sound vibration
and silent meditation. For more information: www.yogaville.org
Integrative Yoga Therapy
Founded by Joseph Le Page to adapt yoga postures for gentler applications
such as treating heart disease, physical rehabilitation, and AIDS.
Instructors also use guided imagery and breath work to help patients
become more internally aware and heal. Visit www.iytyogatherapy.com
Iyengar
B.K.S. Iyengar is one of the most influential yoga masters. Iyengar
yoga is done at a slower pace with great attention to precise alignment.
Asanas are held for a long time so students can fine-tune their muscular
and skeletal alignment. If you cannot complete a pose, the instructor
will accommodate your physical limitations with props – blocks,
belts, blankets and chairs. For more information: www.bksiyengar.com
Jivamukti
Jivamukti Yoga is a vigorous and challenging form of vinyasa asana
practice (flowing postures), infused with an inspiring musical soundtrack,
where original scriptures are cited, Sanskrit is chanted and meditation
is part of every class. You can find out more about Jivamukti Yoga
at www.jivamuktiyoga.com.
Kripalu
A gentler form of yoga focusing on prana or life force. Started by
Amrit Desai, Kripalu yoga trusts the body’s wisdom and is sometimes
called “meditation in motion.” For more information: www.kripalu.org
Kriya Yoga see Ananda
Kundalini
Brought to the west by Yogi Bhajan. Kundalini yoga incorporates postures,
dynamic breathing techniques, meditation and chanting. Practitioners
concentrate on awakening the energy at the base of the spine and drawing
it up through the seven chakras. For more information: www.3HO.org
Power Yoga
A rigorous workout derived from Ashtanga yoga. Classes create heat
and keep students moving. The term Power Yoga is used often in health
clubs. To determine what the classes are like, consult with the individual
instructor. See www.power-yoga.com
Sivananda
Based on philosophy of Swami Sivanada, which places asanas into a
larger holistic emphasis. Sivananda yoga incorporates breath work
(pranayama), meditation, vegetarianism, and relaxation, along with
traditional asana practice. Classes consist of 12 basic hatha yoga
postures, and include chanting, breath work and meditation. See www.sivananda.org
for more info.
Viniyoga
Created by T.K.V. Desikachar. Viniyoga focuses on the individual’s
body by adjusting each pose to the student’s needs, and synchronizing
it with the breath. This gentler form of yoga is good for beginners
or the infirm. For more information: www.viniyoga.com
Vinyasa-Style/ Vinyasa Flow
This is a term for many yoga postures linked together in a continuous
flow, with emphasis on the breath. These classes guide practitioners
from one asana into another at slow or fast pace, and build strength
and flexibility.
If you are interested in taking classes or learning
more about a specific style of yoga listed above, please search our
online Teacher
Directory to find an instructor in your area.
