Hatha Yoga

As I mentioned in the introduction page, Hatha Yoga is described in the Hatha Yoga Pradipika. This book describes the various practices that form the basis of the yoga we have here in the UK.

here are a few you may have come across:

Ashtanga – a very strong practise following several series of postures. In my opinion something for the developing yogi rather than the beginner.

Scaravelli – A practise based upon the teaching of Vanda Scaravelli.  Main principle here is that yoga was created in India and as we are not we should respect the fact that we cannot sit on the floor for long times as was the practise when yoga was founded. This is a softer respectful practise.

Iyengar – a very traditional style based upon the practise of BKS Iyengar. Very much focused upon alignment aided by the use of props.

Yin / Yang – Yin is where props such as bolsters are used to allow the body to relax into postures. Working upon the facia rather than muscles it uses gravity to move into posture. Yang is more active posture work to create movement.

Pregnancy – Whilst pregnancy does not discount any of the other practises, yoga is often recommended to pregnant women. A class for like minded ladies allows for a very inclusive class where postures are modified to suit the expectant mother as she enters each trimester.

Flow – as the name implies it is yoga based on a moving flow from one posture to another.

DRU – this is generally considered as a gentle practise with sequences for moving the energy within the body. It has lots of flows to create flexibility.

Hot – Hot and sometimes called Bikram yoga is practised in heat. This is strong and is not advised for the beginner or those with breathing or heart conditions.

I have practised many of these and believe that they all have a part to play in promoting yoga. I can only recommend that beginners try the different styles to find those that work for them.

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