Last week we started our post about different Yoga Styles, here is the second part to our most popular Yoga Styles
Yoga Styles Part 2:
Tantra Yoga
A yoga that focuses on relationships, though its roots have little else to do with the western idea of tantric sexuality. Tantra Yoga is said to change the way its practitioners relate to the world around them. Movements shift concentration onto the body’s different ‘chakras,’ or power centres.
Yin and Yang Yoga
These two styles can be practiced independently, but are best in conjunction. They stem from the Chinese philosophy of interdependent opposites.
Yin Yoga is slow and mindful, and so resembles Hatha. Asanas are held for especially long period in order to strengthen joints. The after-effects have been said to resemble those of acupuncture, without the needles.
Yang Yoga is vigorous like Ashtanga, but with a special focus on remedial posture alignment and core strength.
Flow Yoga
Describes a style of yoga that uses careful choreography. The asanas are sequenced in a way that complements breathing patterns and optimizes muscular effort. A good flow eases the body from one challenging pose to another.
Kundalini Yoga
Related to Tantra Yoga, Kundalini Yoga was formerly an exclusive and mystic style. The seven chakras are central to the posture series. Practitioners also participate in chants to reinforce each individual body’s potential for healthy, happiness and spiritual wholeness.
Iyengar Yoga
The very precise asanas of Iyengar Yoga are held for even longer than in Yin Yoga. This style is meant to be accessible to people of all abilities– props like chairs or blocks are used to compensate for injuries or alignment problems.
Anusara Yoga
Rooted in Hatha Yoga, this distinct branch emphasizes therapeutic techniques.
Anusara is associated with the concept of divine will, and the search for the yogi’s true individual nature. In Anusara, muscular stability is considered an artistic expression of self.
Now that you’ve got the styles sorted out, you’re all set to explore new yogi horizons. Just remember that yoga is about the moment as much as it is rooted in tradition. The many styles and postures are open to interpretation, and should be adjusted to your body’s needs.
Still have questions to pose? Thankfully, your Naked Truth instructors have extensive experience in all different styles. Marilyn and Samara can help customize with a fitness routine that works for you!
Follow us on Facebook and Twitter for more yoga tips and conversations!
Namaste,