Other forms of yoga

In the first section we explored in some depth the most commonly practiced form of yoga in the West, Hatha Yoga, sometimes referred to as basic yoga, which is an ideal starting point for beginners in the sport.

Although based on the same essentials of asanas (postures), pranayama (breathing) and meditation, there are various alternative forms of Yoga that can be practiced. The aim of this section is to give a brief summary of a number of different yoga disciplines and, also, links to useful websites that explore them in more detail.

Ashtanga & Power Yoga

Philosophically speaking, Ashtanga yoga means “yoga of eight parts”, “ashta” means eight and “anga” is translated as limbs. When you practice ashtanga yoga in depth, the intention is that you exercise all eight limbs of the discipline. The eight limbs are more precisely viewed as eight levels of progress, each level providing benefits in and of itself and also laying the foundation for the higher levels:

1. Yama - Both Ethical Obligations
2. Niyama - Both Ethical Obligations
3. Asana - Both Ethical Obligations
4. Pranayama - Breath Control
5. Pratyahara - Sense Withdraw
6. Dharana - Concentration
7. Dyana - Meditation
8. Samadhi - Experience Of Unity With God

Ashtanga in practice is essentially a fast-paced, intense Yoga style. The same set of poses are performed each time, in the same order, and classes are conducted in a relatively athletic, flowing style. It is an ideal form of Yoga to exercise well, improve flexibility and strength, tone the body and relax the mind. Ashtanga is also the inspiration for what is often referred to as Power Yoga.

For more information about the branch of ashtanga yoga and also where to locate teachers and workshops etc, check out Ashtangayoga.com.

Jivamukti Yoga

Jivamukti Yoga is the latest branch of Hatha Yoga and was pioneered by David Life and Sharon Gannon in 1984. It is a very physical form of Yoga, much like Ashtanga yoga. On the other hand, however, it also combines a heavy philosophically educational aspect, in which students can also learn about the history of yoga in considerable depth and, for this reason, is often favoured by those who have some level of experience in the sport.

The word Jivamukti in Sanskrit means "liberation while living" and this is the idea that underpins this form of yoga. Jivamukti combines a strong emphasis on the energetic and physical practice of Yoga, whilst being strongly rooted in the spiritual traditions of Yoga. In other words, it is a yoga that utilizes an ethical approach to living and attempts to apply it to a modern lifestyle. It teaches a creative approach to living and being.

In a typical Jivamukti Yoga class for example, the activities will be divided between physical and spiritual practices and will most likely also incorporate chanting, asanas, music, meditation, and devotional practices. Indeed, there are 5 elements that comprise the basis of each class are: scriptures, Bhakti (devotion to God), ahimsa (nonviolence and compassion), Nada Yoga (deep listening), and meditation (connection with the unchanging reality within).

Centres that specialise in Jivamukti Yogawithin the UK can be found at Jivamuktiyoga.co.uk.

Karma Yoga

On a much more spiritual/religious note, Karma Yoga supposes a complete dedication of all one’s actions and the consequences to the Supreme Creator. In layman’s terms, it involves a selfless service to humanity. Philosophically speaking, Karma yoga is intended “to purify the heart” and prepare the heart and mind for the entry of Divine Light. So, the teaching is that all your actions in life should be carried out without egoism.

Some places around the UK to practice Karma Yoga include Mandala Ashram.

Bikram Yoga

Founded by Bikram Choudhury, Bikram Yoga uses a rigorous set of 26 poses to be performed in a room with temperature between 95-100 degrees Fahrenheit. Not surprisingly, the aim is to relax and stretch muscles, combined with copious amounts of sweating, which is believed to cleanse the body.

Information regarding classes, teachers and contacts and links for Bikram yoga can be found here.

Iyengar Yoga

Based on the teachings of Yogacharya B.K.S Iyengar, the focus is on bodily alignment and hence asanas are usually maintained for a longer period of time, in contrast to rapidly changing from one to another.

Check the Iyengar Yoga Association UK for more information about this branch of he discipline and also links to classes and available teachers in your region.

Kundalini Yoga

In Kundalini Yoga, there is more emphasis on the Pranayama (breathing techniques) rather than the asanas. Breathing is coupled with physical activity too, but more in the form of quick, recurring movements, as opposed to the holding of a pose. The objective of Kundalini is to release the body’s energy so that it can be allowed to proceed upwards.

Kundalini Yoga also has its own UK Association for links to classes, teachers and training courses.

Vinyasa Yoga

Vinyasa means “breath-synchronized movement” and is a more dynamic style based on the performance of a series of asanas in which movement is synchronized with to breathing.

The informal Vinyasa Yoga UK website is useful to learn more about this form of the sport.