Often referred to as ‘the Father of modern yoga’, B K S Iyengar was one of the foremost yoga teachers in the world. He is the founder of ‘Iyengar Yoga’ and the author of many books on yoga practices and philosophy.
Iyengar enticed his students by offering them exactly what they wanted, which is physical stamina and flexibility. After suffering a spine dislocation in a scooter accident, he began the usage of props to help disabled people practice yoga. Iyengar drew inspiration from deities such as Yoga Narasimha and others who used trees to support their asanas.
In commemoration of B K S Iyengar's 100th birth anniversary on December 14, DH explores the types of yoga that is beneficial to the body and mind by quickly changing the physical and mental capacity, providing long-term health benefits.
1.Iyengar Yoga
It' is a style of perfectionist yoga which revolves around precision. It is detail-oriented, can be practiced by people of all ages and is great for those with injuries. Iyengar yoga is an approach uses props ranging from yoga blocks and blankets to straps or a ropes wall, helping you to work within a safe range of motion that is safe and effective.
2. Vinyasa Yoga
Vinyasa is more of intense work and fast pace, so all those athletes and runners out there can pump up the volume and match the beats to the sequence and the poses.
3. Ashtanga Yoga
This form consists of six series of specifically sequenced yoga pose and is best suited for perfectionists who love routine and strict guidelines.
4. Bikram Yoga
Bikram consists of a set of 26 poses and two breathing exercises performed in a hot room with a temperature of 40 degrees and 40 percent humidity, so prepare to sweat it out.
5. Hatha Yoga
This for is all about basics and is best suited for beginners as it requires you to hold each pose for a few breaths. It is considered a gentle form of yoga by many.
6. Kundalini Yoga
If you are interested in the spiritual side yoga this may be the answer. It focuses more on breath work, spiritual energy, and meditation.
7. Yin Yoga
Yin Yoga is the opposite of Asthanga which is fast-paced. It requires you to hold poses for several minutes and is not recommended for people who are super flexible or anyone who has connective tissue disorder.
8. Anusara Yoga
This style emphasizes on uplifting the spirit and helps to open up your heart and to connect with the divine in others around you. It involves practicing the five universal principles of Alignment.
9. Viniyoga
Viniyoga allows one to achieve their goals at their own pace. It is best suited for individuals recovering from a surgery or having specific physical needs.
10. Sivananda yoga
Sivananda yoga, a form of Hatha yoga, is an aggregation of five principles: proper exercise, proper eating, proper relaxation, proper breathing, and positive thinking and meditation. This form is right for you if you are interested in holistic health.