Become a Yogi

I started practicing yoga about 4 years ago when I went to college. A few of my roommates and I would take afternoon classes at the gym at least once a week, and it didn’t take long before I was hooked on it! Before practicing yoga, I pretty much only did cardio workouts…and the (very) occasional strength workout. As a runner, I noticed the benefits of yoga right away…stretching out tight muscles was so helpful. I continued to do Hatha and Anusara classes until I decided to give Hot Yoga an attempt…and then I was hooked again! Hot Yoga is a lifesaver — when I’m feeling sore and inflexible from running lots of miles, I always do a Hot Yoga class and I feel completely renewed afterward. Just recently, I purchased a Groupon for a local studio that teaches a variety of classes, so I have been experimenting with different types of yoga…taking different types of yoga has reminded how great ANY type is! 

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Types of Yoga

• Hatha – Generally slower-paced, somewhat gentle…provides a good introduction to basic yoga poses. Good for beginners!
• Vinyasa – Incorporates breath-synchronized movements; can be quite vigorous; perform series of poses called “Sun Salutations” where movements are matched to the breath. Its typically wise to start with a basic yoga class to learn the poses before moving on to Vinyasa, since you will be moving through poses quickly!
• Ashtanga/Power Yoga – Typically follows a set series of poses in order; very fast-paced and intense; from my own experience, it will definitely get your heart racing!
• Bikram/Hot Yoga – Typically practiced in a room heated to 95-105 degrees, which allows muscles to loosen and toxins to be sweated out of the body; there are 26 set poses, so for the most part, you always know what to expect. Its a very intense class, and you are guaranteed to sweat more than you ever have before!
• Anusara – Strong emphasis on physical alignment along with a positive philosophy that believes in the goodness of all beings; classes are typically taught in a light-hearted manner that attempts to open your heart, physically and mentally.
• Restorative – Typically makes use of props to support the body so that poses can be held for a longer period of time, which allows for intensive stretching. Many of the poses in these classes are done from supine (laying flat on your back) or seated positions. 
• Laughter Yoga – A fairly new trend, where laughter (either true laughter or simulated through chanting) is used during yoga practice. There is usually lots of moving around and different types of exercises incorporated into this practice. The many benefits of laughter make this class worth a shot!

These are just a sampling of the many styles of yoga practice! Yoga can seem daunting, especially if you have no experience with it. However, I completely recommend giving it a try…not every class is “serious” and full of meditation and chanting (if that isn’t your thing!)…with so many options, I bet almost anyone could find a yoga class that they like!

What is your favorite kind of yoga to practice?

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-xoxo

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