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Yoga

Because it is a seemingly esoteric concept and has a spiritual component, some people find yoga intimidating. There is no doubt that yoga is much more than a physical practice. Yet, whether or not one is on a spiritual path, yoga in and of itself will, at the very least, promotes structural stability and physiological and emotional health. Eventually students can use the physical body to access consciousness and eventually reach deep into the mind.

There are many types of yoga. The one that is most popular in our country is Hatha Yoga, which is the practice of asanas (postures/poses) and pranayama (breathing exercises) to bring about balance in ones life. Other types of yoga include; Mantra Yoga, the repetition of a sound to reach a higher consciousness; Laya Yoga, the practice of raising Kundalini to reach a state of deep meditation; Raja Yoga, use of centralized thought with spiritual reflection to bring about withdrawal of sensory perceptions. There are numerous other types as well.

Hatha Yoga

With ha meaning “sun” and tha meaning “moon”; Hatha Yoga is commonly translated, as the yoga that brings union “of the pairs of opposites”; One of these “pairs” can be “strength” and “flexibility”. One of the original objectives of the practice of Hatha Yoga was to prepare the body to be strong and healthy enough that one could sit perfectly comfortable in one position for very long periods of time to practice meditation.

There are also many styles, or traditions, of Hatha Yoga. The differences are usually in where emphasis is placed, such as alignment of the body, coordination of the breath with body movement, holding the postures for great lengths of time, or perhaps the flowing movement of one posture to another. All of these traditions do share a common lineage. The founders of many of the classical traditions were students of Krishnamacharya, Sivananda or Paramhansa Yogananda, (author of the spiritual classic, Autobiography of a Yogi). One tradition is not better than the other; it is just a matter of the practitioner’s personality and personal preference. Most importantly you want to find a teacher that you feel comfortable with.

Some teachers teach the traditions in their pure form; others draw from their training in a combination of the traditions, which is sometimes simply referred to as “hatha style”, multi-style” or “eclectic”.

Styles of Hatha yoga

There are at least 25 different styles of Hatha Yoga available worldwide, including: Anusara Yoga, Kundalini Yoga, Structural Yoga, Iyengar Yoga, Ashtanga Yoga, Acu Yoga, Ananda Yoga, Svaroopa Yoga, Ishta Yoga, Tri Yoga, White Lotus Yoga, Integral Yoga, Bikram Yoga, Urban Yoga, Somatic Yoga, Phoenix Rising Yoga, Scaravelli Yoga, Sivananda Yoga, Integrative Yoga therapy, Kripalu Yoga, Sky Yoga, Jivamukti Yoga, Viniyoga, Yokibics, American Power Yoga. . .
Our instructors have experience in a wide variety of yoga styles. During our Yoga Basics series, our instructors discuss the differences and common elements between the various styles taught at our studio so that you can decide which ones appeal to you the most.

Following is a brief description of the most common Hatha Yoga styles:

Ananda

A classical style developed by an American named Donald J. Walters, known as Swami Kriyananda. He devoted 45 years of his life to studying the teachings of Paramhansa Yogananda. Ananda is a gentle style of yoga characterized by it’s use of silent affirmations, yoga postures and breathing techniques to awaken the energies of the charkas and bring harmony to the mind, body and emotions.

Ashtanga

For students seeking a real workout! Ashtanga was developed by K. Pattabhi Jois (student of Krishnamacharya) and taught to young men in India to help them cope with their teenage years. Participants move through a series of flows, jumping from one posture to another to build strength, flexibility and stamina. The name “ashtanga” also refers to the 8 limbs of yoga which are all incorporated in this style of Hatha yoga. The Power Yoga style is based on Ashtanga and in health clubs it is also referred to as Aerobic Yoga.

Iyengar

B.K.S. Iyengar (also a student of Krishnamacharya) is one of the forerunners in bringing yoga to the western world, his style remains one of the most popular today. Iyengar classes are noted for their emphasis on alignment of the body in the yoga postures and the use of yoga belts, blocks, bolsters and blankets as yoga props. Like Ashtanga, Iyengar yoga is based on the eight limbs of yoga as explained by Patanjali in his teachings called The Yoga Sutras.

Integral

Integral instructors put equal emphasis on pranayama and meditation as they do on yoga postures. Integral was developed by Swami Satchidananda, who is famous for teaching the crowds at Woodstock to chant "Om," Integral Yoga is endorsed by Dr. Dean Ornish and has been used in his programs for reversing heart disease.

Kripalu

Called the yoga of consciousness, Kripalu puts great emphasis developing awareness of the breath coordinating it with the movement of the body. Students learn to work within their own limits, focus on psychological reactions caused by yoga postures and to honor the wisdom of their bodies. Kripalu was founded in Sumneytown, Pennsylvania, by Amrit Desai who brought the yoga teachings of Swami Kripalvananda to the west. Phoenix Rising Yoga Therapy has its origins in Kripalu Yoga.

Kundalini

An intensive form of yoga, awakening the body, mind, and spirit. Kundalini yoga is based on the teachings of Yogi Bhajan and it emphasizes breath (Pranayama) and Mantra (sound or chanting), focuses on raising consciousness and energy (Kundalini) up from the base of the spine.

Scaravelli

Scaravelli Yoga is based on the teaching of Vanda Scaravelli who is a student of BKS Iyengar. Scaravelli developed a gentle fluid approach to yoga that focuses on the spine, the ground and the breath and teaches one’s body to use asanas rather than the other way around. Many well known teachers have been inspired by Vanda, including: Ester Myers, Donna Farhi, Janet Balaskas, Irene Beer & Angela Farmer.

Sivananda

Sivananda, one of the world's largest schools of yoga, is very supportive to beginners. Developed by Swami Vishnu-Devananda and named for his teacher, Swami Sivananda, Sivananda Yoga follows a set structure that includes breathing, classic asanas, and relaxation, as well as principles of diet and positive thinking.

Viniyoga

More of a methodology (than a style) for developing practices for individual conditions and purposes. This is the approach developed by Sri. T. Krishnamacharya and continued by his son, T.K.V. Desikachar. Gary Kraftsow (student of Desikachar) founded Viniyoga in our country. Viniyoga respects the fact that as we grow, the methods we use in yoga must be modified and the very purpose of our practice changed. Emphasis is placed on the individual students needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is yoga?
What is hatha yoga?
How is hatha yoga different from just stretching?
Is yoga for everyone?
What if I am not flexible?
What are some of the benefits of yoga?
Has there been any formal research into the benefits of yoga?
Is yoga a religion?
Is yoga a New Age practice?
Can I do yoga during pregnancy?

What is yoga?

Yoga is a complete science of physical health, mental clarity, emotional stability, and spiritual expression. It is a practice that transforms. The word Yoga means "union" and has origins in India dating over 5,000 years. This union of a person's mind, body and spirit is brought into balance through a total system of health and fitness.

Because it is a seemingly esoteric concept and has a spiritual component, some people find yoga intimidating. There is no doubt that yoga is much more than a physical practice. Yet, whether or not one is on a spiritual path, yoga in and of itself will, at the very least, promotes structural stability and physiological and emotional health. Eventually students can use the physical body to access consciousness and eventually reach deep into the mind.

What is hatha yoga?

Hatha Yoga is the physical form of yoga designed to bring balance and well-being into your life. It is the perfect lifetime fitness program and totally different from any other kind of exercise. We stretch the body from the bone to the skin and from the head to the toes, which helps to quiet the mind, and energize the body. The movements of yoga reach deep into the tissue, relieve tension and stress, revitalize and assist in overcoming many physical and emotional problems, such as sciatica, back and neck problems, and depression.

How is hatha yoga different from just stretching?

In a yoga stretch you are "mindful." You are constantly monitoring the body and listening to its feedback and adjusting yourself (perhaps quite subtly) inside the pose. Your mind becomes very concentrated. Hatha yoga has been described as "meditation in action."

Is yoga for everyone?

In general yes, you can do the class within your limits and abilities. Breathing is a requirement, and if you are reading this you likely qualify.

Starting yoga does not demand inherent strength of flexibility - just desire. Modifications are generally given. However, if there are pre-conditions due to injury or accidents you must consult a doctor first before participating. Also let the instructor know. If any of the poses does not feel right or if you feel pain please stop.

What if I am not flexible?

This is the most common misconception that prevents people from coming to a yoga class. Yoga is not about how flexible you are; it is about stretching your body and spine. The more inflexible you are, the more you need yoga. You become flexible by doing yoga.

What are some of the benefits of yoga?

Among the numerous positive effects observed through the practice of yoga are reduced stress and anxiety. These alone attract many people. Additionally, many develop enhanced flexibility, strength, and more energy. An overall sense of well-being, likely associated with increased circulation and improved concentration, are also commonly found. The reduction of high-blood pressure and even chronic pain have been illustrated through studies done with yoga. Results are, of course, individual and dependent upon personal ambition and efforts.

Has there been any formal research into the benefits of yoga?

There has been quite a lot of research, particularly in India. The Yoga Site's Yoga Therapy News covers some of the latest studies reported in research journals. In addition, it includes a list of some of the major organizations researching yoga therapy.

Is yoga a religion?

No. The physical and psychological benefits of yoga are real and don't discriminate on the basis of race, religion, gender, political persuasion or any other way people like (or dislike) to categorize themselves. The benefits also don't depend on chanting Om. On the spiritual side, most mystical traditions -- East or West -- draw similar maps of the spiritual path. So in that respect, yoga is mainstream. Like Shakespeare said, "A rose by any name would smell as sweet." For these reasons, many people feel they can practice yoga without conflict with their religious beliefs.

Is yoga a New Age practice?

Yoga is an ancient practice with a written history going back thousands of years. It is not New Age, although various New Age movements have adopted and adapted elements of yoga. In addition, yoga and New Age movements share a focus on mind/body development.

Can I do yoga during pregnancy?

Certainly. Yoga during pregnancy is a wonderful experience for the mother-to-be and the unborn. It is a great preparation for the birth. The breathing exercises provide the fetus with oxygen and prepare the mother for birth. It is actually proven that a mother that takes Yoga on a regular basis may have more control over her breathing then those that only attend child birth classes. Some of the poses are specifically designed to give more flexibility in the hips which may be helpful when giving birth. Also, back pain and back problems may be reduced and the balance may strengthen. However, there are restrictions, so you must consult a doctor first before participating.