Different Yoga Types - Part 2

Here is our continuing list of the different types of yogas:

ANUSARA

Anusara was developed in 1997 by John Friend. It couples an emphasis on physical alignment with a positive philosophy stemming from Tantra. This philosophy’s basis is a belief in the inborn goodness in all beings. Anusara classes are usually light-hearted and available to students at different ability levels. Poses are taught in such a way as to open the heart, both physically and mentally. Props are often used.

JIVAMUKTI

This style of yoga came from a New York yoga studio. The founders of Jivamukti, Sharon Gannon and David Life, take inspiration from Ashtanga yoga and add some meditation, chanting, and spiritual teachings. They’ve trained lots of teachers who, in turn, have brought this style of yoga to all areas of the United States. These classes intense, physically. And be ready for some chanting.

FORREST

Based in Santa Monica, California, Forrest Yoga is a yoga method taught by Ana Forrest. It’s quickly becoming popluar all around the U.S. The performance of some vigorous asana sequences is intended to purify and strengthen the body and release hidden painful emotions so that healing can begin. You can look forward to an intense workout with a lot of abdominal strengthening and deep breathing.

KRIPALU

The name Kripalu comes from a yoga wellness center in Stockbridge, Massachusettsa and style of hatha yoga. Both were developed by guru Amrit Desai, who arrived in the United States from India in 1960. Kripalu is a yoga style that offers a compassionate approach and emphasis on physical healing, meditation, and spiritual transformation that overlaps into your day-to-day life.

INTEGRAL

Integral yoga is a gentle hatha practice. Classes include breathing exercises, chanting, kriyas, and meditation.

SIVANANDA

The first Sivananda Yoga Center was founded in 1957 by Swami Vishnu-devananda, who is said to be a disciple of Swami Sivananda. There are currently about 80 locations worldwide. Sivananda yoga is based upon five principles:

1. Proper exercise (Asana, focusing on 12 poses in particular)

2. Proper breathing (Pranayama)

3. Proper relaxation (Savasana)

4. Proper diet (Vegetarian)

5. Positive thinking and meditation (Dhyana)