Getting Started With Yoga

Written By Body Wipe Company Tags: Yoga

Are you looking to add something new to your exercise routine? Are you growing tired of your current fitness classes? Do you work out consistently, but have reached a plateau in your weight loss progress? Would you like to try yoga but are unsure which class to take? Yoga is a form of exercise based on Eastern philosophy. The word “yoga” loosely translated means “to yoke”, or “to join”. Yoga aims to join the body and the mind through movement and breathing. There are many styles of yoga practiced by people of all ages all over the world. Some popular styles are listed below. Ashtanga Yoga Ashtanga yoga is a dynamic style of yoga that develops muscle strength, endurance and flexibility. Deep, rhythmic breathing is used throughout the practice to energize the body. A typical Ashtanga class lasts between 60 and 90 minutes. This style is recommended for reasonably fit individuals. Hot Yoga Known by various names in different areas, hot yoga is a series of yoga postures performed in a heated room, typically 92 to 100 degrees Fahrenheit. The heat warms the muscles, helping them to stretch. The body releases toxins out through the skin as sweat. This style is recommended for reasonably fit individuals and usually lasts 60 to 90 minutes.  Yin Yoga Yin yoga is a less dynamic style. Yin yoga positions are deep muscle stretches that lengthen connective tissues and increase flexibility. Most postures are seated postures, performed from a sitting position on your mat. These postures are held for 3 to 5 minutes. This gives the muscles ample time for a complete stretch. Yin yoga is appropriate for all fitness levels. Classes are typically 60 to 90 minutes long.  Hatha Yoga Hatha yoga moves through a series of postures designed to develop muscular strength and create a sense of well being. An emphasis is placed on breathing deeply into each posture to move oxygen efficiently throughout the body. A hatha yoga class can run anywhere from 30 to 90 minutes. It is considered appropriate for all fitness levels. Yoga is a wonderful way to stay active. There are a variety of styles to suit different tastes and fitness levels. Recently hybrid classes have become available in many areas. Hybrid classes blend yoga with more familiar forms of exercise such as pilates, ballet, cardiovascular training, weight training and dance. Try a yoga class and discover which style works for you!