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The term yoga is derived from a Sanskrit term ‘yuj’, which means union. Yoga originated more than 5000 years ago in India, and has developed into a wide variety of different forms which focus on meditation or Dhyana, flexibility, postures or Asana, and breathing techniques or Pranayma. The yoga experience can be very spiritual, as it is meant to completely link the mind, the body and the spirit as a single entity.

Everyone can derive some benefit from the practice of yoga as it offers an increased connection between the mind and body, a better sense of strength and flexibility, improved coordination and balance, and even stress release. Beginning a yoga practice is a simple task, because you can easily start small and work yourself up to the more difficult poses over time. There are many different styles of yoga, each with its own set of benefits and characteristics so the first step in the process is to choose a style of yoga that you feel most comfortable with.

Ashtanga Yoga, which is also commonly referred to as Power Yoga, is meant to provide a fast paced and intense yoga experience. Ashtanga Yoga tends to focus on constantly moving from one pose into the next, but in a way that allows all practitioners to work at the pace that they are most comfortable with.

Bikram Yoga which is also commonly referred to as Hot Yoga, is meant to be provided in a hot environment where the temperature is between 95 and 100 degrees Fahrenheit. The purpose of the heat is to promote an intense amount of sweating, which can work wonders for cleansing the body and loosening muscles that have become tight.

Hatha Yoga is meant to be a more general term, with Hatha Yoga workouts typically focusing on gentle, slow yoga poses for beginners.

Inyengar Yoga may possibly be the most popular of all of the yoga styles practiced in the United States today. The Inyengar Yoga style focuses on poses being held for longer durations, which allows practitioners to gain a better understanding of the subtleties that come with each individual posture. This allows them to pay more attention to the alignment of their bodies and their musculoskeletal system as a whole. Inyengar Yoga utilizes many different styles of props, including blankets, belts, blocks, bands and even chairs in order to accommodate all types of fitness levels, and to meet the individual needs of each practitioner.

Finally, Vinyasa Yoga has to do with stretches which are much more aggressive. Vinyasa Yoga tends to focus on sun salutations, as well as connecting movement with breath.