One of the most popular types of yoga of all is that of Hatha yoga, and this is one of the easiest types of yoga to learn, and as well it is the basic foundation for all of the other types of yoga. Hatha yoga incorporates Asanas (postures), Pranayama (regulated breathing), meditation (Dharana & Dhyana) and kundalini (Laya Yoga) into a complete system that can be used to achieve enlightenment or self-realization.

Another one of the most popular types of yoga is Bikram yoga, and this is the method of yoga which is a comprehensive workout, one that includes all of the components of fitness, which are: muscular strength, muscular endurance, cardiovascular flexibility and weight loss.

Then there is also Jivamukti yoga, which was developed in the year 1986 by Sharon Gannon and David Life, and which is the yoga method which mostly expresses the spiritual and ethical aspects of the practice of yoga that have been disregarded or devalued in contemporary times. Furthermore, it is a vigorous and challenging asana form that puts a strong emphasis on that of scriptural study, non-violence and meditation.

Yet another type of yoga is Power yoga, and this is the type of yoga that is considered as being the ‘yoga with brawn’. It is a yoga discipline which combines that of strength, stretching, training, and meditative breathing, and many of the poses actually resemble basic calisthenics – push-ups, handstands, toe touches and side bends.

There are thus many different types of yoga that you have to choose from, and this is great because it really allows each different participant to be able to find a particular type of yoga that suits them best and which will help them to come out with the best possible results.

Just remember to take your time when you are trying to decide on which type of yoga you should go with, and if you are having trouble, then one good idea is to speak to a fitness professional, so that they can give you their qualified opinion in regards to which type of yoga you should start yourself off with.

[tags]hatha, power, Jivamukti, Bikram[/tags]

Most of the different types of yoga will combine the physical, mental and spiritual elements of the body, with the ultimate goal being a renewed awareness of the body and an overall greater health and fitness level. Tantric yoga takes this process to a whole new level, by focusing on the spiritual health of the body through additional meditation and lifestyle choices. Tantric yoga can include a number of different sciences, including astrology, physics, chemistry, psychology and mathematics to bring about a greater enlightenment to enhance your everyday life.

Increased Consciousness on Many Levels

Tantric yoga will focus on consciousness at many different levels. It begins with a session of meditation to purify the mind, and will include the visualization of love and devotion being directed to a central body of light, which is your soul. The ultimate goal of tantric yoga is to renew your mind and spirit through a profound spiritual awakening that comes through these meditation sessions. It is thought to be the transferring of energy to higher levels, for maximum spiritual growth and whole body wellness.

One of the elements of tantric yoga that is extremely important is the cessation of bad habits like overeating, smoking and excessive drinking. All of these behaviors are damaging and destructive to your physical body, making it important for you to stop them as you are striving for ultimate spiritual and physical renewal.

Increased Popularity in the United States

While tantric yoga has been quite popular in eastern cultures, it has grown in popularity within the United States as well. For those that are hungry for a spiritual workout as well as a physical one, tantric yoga can offer many far-reaching benefits. In addition to many of the other physical benefits of other types of yoga, tantric yoga can increase sexual function and stamina. It has also been shown to improve the function of the prostate in many men who practice this type of yoga regularly. If you are considering a type of yoga, and are looking for more than simply your basic workout, tantric yoga might offer just what you are searching for. Not only will you receive physical and mental benefits as you would with other types of yoga, you may enjoy a spiritual awakening as well.

[tags]yoga, tantric yoga[/tags]

If you’ve got a boring daily commute on a train or bus, consider some gentle yoga meditation combined with visualization. Not only will your yoga meditation prepare you for the day, it will relax you, and that’s always good.

“A commute to inner peace” offers these meditation tips:

• Listen to light music or meditation commentary
• Take slow, deep breaths
• Imagine a relaxing place
• Accept noise and confines of your journey
• Write positive affirmations
• If standing, put bag down and relax body and mind
• On bus or overground train, take in the view
• In a traffic jam, shift mind into neutral and relax body

Visualize a great day

Visualize the best possible outcome for your day: see yourself relaxed, calm, in control and having fun.

[tags]yoga meditation, commute, meditation tips, visualization[/tags]