Types of Yoga
There are various types of yoga styles that are practiced in the world today. Below is an overview of some of the more popular forms of yoga.
Ashtanga - Developed in India and explained in the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali
Iyengar - Developed by BKS Iyengar. Focuses on form and alignment and uses various props, such as blocks, straps, chairs and bolsters.
Power Yoga - Moves from one pose to another quickly in sucession in order to build strength, flexibility and stamina.
Bikram - Developed by Bikram Choudhury. Performed in over 100 degree Fahrenheit temperature. Focuses on 26 postures performed in specific order.
Hatha - Mellow & Classical. Encourages students to listen to their own body, and move accordingly.
Kundalini - used to activate Kundalini energy in the spine. Uses matras, meditations, breath control, body locks and finger gestures.
Kripalu - meditation oriented. Uses dynamic and continuous flow of postures.
Sivananda - uses 12 poses and sun salutations, breathing, relaxation & mantras.
Viniyoga - slower & individualized program. mainly used for seniors, beginners, injuries & rehabilitation.
Anusura - Developed by John Friend in 1997. Uses flowing postures, alignment & props. Focuses on living a yogic lifestyle.
Tantra - focuses on shakti (sexual energy), associated with kundalini.
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