Hatha yoga

Popular thinking ‘in the West’ (an all-too-common expression now), is that Hatha yoga is about balancing the body and mind. With ‘ha’ representing the esoteric sun, and ‘tha’ the moon, and the practice of Hatha yoga aiming to join, yoke, or balance these two energies.

A yoga class described as ‘Hatha’ will typically involve a set of physical postures and breathing techniques, practised more slowly and with more static posture holds than perhaps a Vinyasa flow or Ashtanga class.

Overview

For this type of yoga, it’s hard to rate some of these criteria definitively because the teacher has a lot of freedom to choose what they teach. If you want more or less of a mind-body element, keep trying different teachers until you find a good fit.

Yin yoga

Ever hear the word Yin and wonder what it exactly it means? Yin is the feminine, dark, passive, receptive, reflective, withdrawn, cool, introspective aspects of life. Yin yoga was developed to penetrate deep into connective tissue expanding flexibility while invigorating the energy centres of the body (nadis) to release blockages and increase your energy flow. Focusing on static movement, breath work (Pranayama) and meditation to create a profoundly deep and rewarding practice. The primary differences between Yin Yoga and many other forms of yoga is that you are encouraged to NOT use your muscles and passive poses are held for several minutes.

Overview

How does it benefit you?

Have you ever been in the shower and a flood of new ideas or memories come to you? Typically this happens to many of us when we are removed from distractions and our mind has the opportunity to relax. This is similar to Yin Yoga, without the distraction of constant movement and muscle engagement, your connective tissue has the opportunity to stretch and you are able to go much deeper into a pose. In addition, as poses are held for several minutes you body is able to move beyond the 30 seconds it takes for muscles to relax and stretching to occur.

Kundalini yoga

A Kundalini yoga class features the familiar elements of asana, meditation, and chanting, but it all adds up to something quite different than the average yoga class. In 1968, Yogi Bhajan, an Indian government worker, brought Kundalini Yoga to North America, specifically Toronto and Los Angeles.

The purpose of Kundalini Yoga is to awaken the kundalini energy that rests at the base of the spine. Two lines of energy move up and around the base of the spine, intersecting at seven points referred to as the chakras. Each chakra has a function that keeps us healthy. The rhythmic, steady movement of kundalini poses starts the flow of energy and corrects any imbalances in the chakras. Once the energy starts moving, the yogi becomes more aware, more integrated with reality, and moves into a state of higher consciousness. The greater awareness and peace lead to a happier, more productive life.

Overview

What does it do for me?

Kundalini yoga has been described as “yoga for householders.” It’s meant to fit into the daily grind of work and parenting. Though the repetitive motions of some poses can be tiring, you don’t have to be in excellent shape to practice Kundalini yoga, nor do you have to commit your life to the practice. Kundalini yoga is not based in any philosophy of ascetism or self-denial. Each class consists of a different kriya, or set of poses that are designed for a specific purpose, such as opening the heart, fighting off illness, or nurturing creativity. Each class includes mantras and meditations that support the purpose of the kriya.

Vinyasa Flow

Vinyasa Yoga is a subset of Hatha yoga that is distinguished by its fluid transitions and movement through a series of carefully planned poses. The literal translation of vinyasa is “to place in a special way.” Each teacher may interpret vinyasa in their own way, but you can count on coordinating your breath with fluid movement.

The purpose of vinyasa yoga is to use the breath to align the body and mind. You’ll develop a stronger mind-body connection and grow in strength and flexibility. It’s also fun and a great way to build community with your classmates.

Overview

What does it do for you?

The most visible benefits are the strength and flexibility that you’ll gain from doing poses. Because of the concentration on breathing, your lungs will get stronger. Even if you’re in a non-spiritual class, the focus on the breath and the physicality of the practice will result in a more mindful, peaceful attitude off the mat.

Ashtanga Yoga

Ashtanga yoga is a dynamic, flowing style that connects the movement of the body with the breath. The method stresses the importance of daily practice of a set series of movements. There are six series of Ashtanga yoga sequences, which the student progresses through at their own pace.

The ultimate purpose of the Ashtanga practice is purification of the body and mind. By moving so quickly and powerfully, you will get a lot of tapas and everything extra, physical and mental, will have to get out the way. This practice has a strong sense of purpose and you are forced to focus and grow.

Overview

Yoga Trapeze

A therapeutic and relaxing class designed for everyone regardless of age, gender, flexibility or strength. Yoga Trapeze is the most natural form of inversion therapy that lengthens the space between each vertebra. Exercises are done in a hammock with 3 handles on each side that support and assist the body in deeper backbends that normally could not be accessed. These exercises are most commonly used to improve circulation, relieve back pain, strengthen muscles around the spine and core, and improve balance and flexibility.

Overview

Aerial Yoga

Aerial yoga is a type of yoga which uses a hammock or yoga swing to allow students to perform postures that they may not ordinarily be able to attempt on the yoga mat. It is often also referred to as AntiGravity® yoga. It combines traditional yoga with moves inspired by pilates, dance and acrobatics.

It is thought to be particularly beneficial for students who spend a long time sitting, or who have back pain, because it has a decompressing effect on the body.

What does it do for you?

• Aerial Yoga will make you more flexible and increase your focus
• It will strengthen your muscles and relieve stress
• It gives the experience of a wholesome exercise by engaging all your muscles
• The method is great for your back, and it eases tension in the spine and hip joints
• The exercise is anti-aging and delays the onset of heart problems
• It improves blood circulation and detoxifies your system
• Aerial yoga stretches and strengthens your body
• It will build strength and mobility in your body
• It relaxes your body and lifts your spirits
• The practice aligns your body and centers your mind
• It builds your core and upper body strength
• It balances your being and renews your energy
• The method brings about harmony and peace to your mind