A Beginner's Guide to Different Types of Yoga

Different Types Of Yoga

As you may know, yoga offers numerous health benefits including increased strength and bone density, lower blood pressure, reduced anxiety, etc. And these benefits should be enough to get you on the mat. However, due to some common myths – for example, yoga is too slow and boring; it is just for people who are into chanting, etc., - you still hesitating to embrace this ancient form of fitness.

The truth is, whether you are looking to have a workout, or to relax, or to get in touch with your spiritual side, there are different types of yoga classes to suit your needs. And all the different styles have been developed to create a feeling of lightness, ease and relaxation.

Before choosing a style of yoga read our beginner's guide to different types of yoga that will help you find the one that you will love.

Hatna Yoga – Also known as 'Yoga of Postures' it is the most popular path of yoga. It uses physical poses of Asana, breathing techniques or Pranayama and meditation to achieve better health, as well as spirituality. If your target is a peaceful mind and a healthy body, Hatna Yoga is the best path for you.

Bhaktni Yoga – Also known as 'Yoga of Devotion' it is the most followed path in India. It is the path of the heart and devotion that teaches you to have devotion to the 'One' by developing a person's love and acceptance for all things.

Raja Yoga – Also known as 'Yoga of Self-Control', Raja Yoga is based on the teachings of the Eight Limbs of Yoga found in the Yoga sutras. If you want to learn discipline, Raja Yoga will perfectly suit your needs.

Karma Yoga – Also known as 'Yoga of Service' it believes that your present situation is based on your past actions and by doing selfless service now, you will be choosing a future that is free from negativity and selfishness.

Jnana Yoga – Also known as 'Yoga of the Mind' it is the path that basically deals with the mind by focusing on man's intelligence. It considers wisdom and intellect as important and it aim to unify the two to surpass limitations.

Tantra Yoga – Also known as 'Yoga of Rituals' it is the most misunderstood of all the paths. It is about using ritual to experience what is sacred and it must possess certain qualities such as purity, humility, devotion and dedication to his Guru among other things.