Yoga meditation is popular among celebrities, athletes and professionals. The Sanskrit word “yoga” literally translates to mean “union.” Eastern religions see Buddhist meditation as a pathway to self-discovery. This art form works the physical, mental and spiritual nature of the individual, providing a well-rounded exercise. Yoga practitioners use the concentrative type of meditation and graceful moves to increase flexibility, build strength and improve agility. They find that their minds are clearer, more focused and better equipped to handle stressful situations. Yoga practitioners are generally more empathetic, happier and kinder individuals.
Iyengar Yoga Meditation (as developed by Yogi B.K.S. Iyengar) uses a number of props to help individuals reach certain body positions (asanas) and alignments. Students of varying levels can use wooden blocks to raise the floor level or cotton straps to assist in stretching. Many students find the Iyengar meditation methods effective for treating sports injuries or improving flexibility. Your teacher will pay close attention to your precise posing and will help you correct any imperfections so you can achieve the maximum benefit. Iyengar Yoga is best for new students who like the hands-on assistance and learning all the poses.
Ashtanga Yoga Meditation — sometimes called Vinyasa or Power Yoga — creates heat in the body to purge it of toxins and is considered one of the more rigorous methods. Students will go through a number of asana sequences rapidly, which are designed to improve flexibility, endurance and strength. There is also a spiritual side, which involves eight limbs: Yama (conduct code and self-restraint); Niyama (study and devotion); Asana (mind and body connection through physical exercise); Pranayama (breathing regulation), Pratyahara (withdrawal of the senses); Dharana (concentration); Dhyana (quiet meditation); and Samadhi (blissful awareness). Ashtanga classes are great for those who are fit enough to conquer the poses and who also wish to practice transcendental meditation.
Most yoga meditation occurs in a group setting, with 10-20 other students and a trained teacher. Often times, incense is lit and light music plays in the background. If you’re new to how meditation works and how yoga works, then you may want to purchase a book that shows you the various poses so you don’t feel lost in the class. Some meditation styles — like Iyengar, Kundalini and Sivananda — move at a slower pace, which is helpful for beginners; whereas, Bikram Yoga and Ashtanga Yoga are more intense for people who are generally drawn toward more active workouts.
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