Limber Up
Find the type of yoga best for you.
By Erica K. Perkins, Fitness Director, University of Virginia
What is commonly called yoga is actually referring to the Sanskrit word asana, which is the practice of physical postures or poses. Asana is only one of the eight “limbs” of yoga; the others focus more on mental and spiritual well-being rather than physical activity. In the U.S., however, the words asana and yoga are often used interchangeably.
Nearly all styles, however, are rooted in hatha yoga, which focuses on the physical well being of a person and believes that the body is the vehicle to spiritual well-being. In Sanskrit, “ha” represents sun and “tha” represents moon. It portrays opposing forces in life. The practice of yoga is designed to balance and unite the mind, body and spirit.
Beyond a good stretch
Some people think of yoga as just stretching, but many of the poses require significant muscle strength and endurance as well as flexibility. The variations of hatha yoga range from the physically challenging such as ashtanga or power yoga to the meditatively transcending like kripalu. While all yoga styles seek to balance the body, mind and spirit, teaching techniques and points of focus will vary.
Many styles to choose from
Some areas of emphasis are: strict alignment, breathing techniques, the flow of movement, and the use props for the poses, or the temperature in the room to go for the sweat. No style is better than another; it is a simple matter of personal preference. If you are browsing through a yoga studio’s brochure of classes and a class is simply described as “hatha,” the teacher is probably offering a combination of two or more yoga styles. Try attending a few different types of classes, and you’ll quickly discover the right match to suit your needs. Finding a teacher that you can relate to and a style that furthers your own personal growth will prove most rewarding.
What to expect
A typical practice would begin by performing deep breathing, followed by a series of asanas and end with three to five minutes of quiet relaxation and meditation. If taking yoga in a group exercise setting, the atmosphere should be comfortable and inviting. Pretty much everyone can do some aspect of yoga. However, if you have any injuries or are pregnant, you should tell the teacher before starting your first class, as he or she will provide some instruction on modifications for poses or advise you to skip some all together. In general, though, a beginner can find some position that feels good. Do not feel as though you have to do the most advanced positions the first day or ever for that matter.
Say goodbye to health problems
The postures and breathing techniques of any yoga class yield many benefits to your health and well-being. Practicing yoga promotes flexibility, tones muscles, enhances vitality, cultivates balance, and calms the mind. It improves strength and endurance and increases awareness and concentration. It alleviates stress and creates a welcome feeling of wholeness and deep relaxation. In addition, studies indicate that yoga may also: alleviate back and muscle pain, increase circulation in the organs, glands, and nerves, stimulate digestion and elimination, decrease cholesterol and blood sugar levels, cleanse the body of toxins, and improve breathing disorders.
Stay tuned for future articles that take an in-depth look at varying styles of yoga.
