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Yoga Classes
In Sanskrit, the language of ancient India, the word yoga means "union” being the union of the mind, body and spirit. The word "yoga" as westerners understand it can be more accurately described by the Sanskrit word ‘asana’, which refers to the practice of physical postures or poses.
Many different styles of yoga are being taught and practiced but all are based on the same physical postures (poses) but each has a different emphasis.
Hatha Yoga – Hatha is a general term. When you see ‘hatha’ the yoga is likely to be slow-paced and gentle – and is a good introduction to yoga
Vinyasa Yoga – again a general term – means breath synchronised movement. More vigorous with intense stretching
Ashtanga & Power Yoga. This is fast-paced , intense, poses always in same order – physically demanding – constant movement through flowing poses.
Iyengar Yoga. Concerned with bodily alignment . Emphasis is on holding poses over long periods. Often uses props blocks and straps to bring body into alignment
Kundalini Yoga. Here the emphasis is synchronising breath and physical movement to free lower body energy and permit it to move upwards. Rapid repetitive movements often accompanied by call and response chanting led by tutor.
Bikram/ Hot Yoga - Andy Murray the sensational Scottish tennis player has recently attributed his heightened powers of calmness and concentration whilst playing his matches to his practice of this form of yoga. Practised in a 95 to 100 degree room – it allows for loosening of tight muscles and profuse sweating thought to be cleansing. It consists of a set series of 26 poses if the full Bikram method is followed.
Anusara Yoga combines a strong emphasis on physical alignment with a positive philosophy derived from Tantra. This philosophy is a belief in the basic goodness of all beings. These classes are usually light-hearted and suitable for students of varying abilities. The poses are taught with the intention of opening the heart mentally and physically and props are also used.
Jivamukti Yoga takes inspiration from Ashtanga yoga and emphasizes chanting, meditation, and spiritual teachings.
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