Yoga for Beginners

Hinduism and Buddhism gave birth to yoga long ago in India as a physical manifestation of well-being and spiritual commitment. 

Today, people around the world practice two main types of this ancient practice that’s been modernized.

These modern forms are called Ashtanga and Anusara.

Ashtanga

The western wold was brought Ashtanga yoga by Sri K. Pattabhi Jois (1915 – 2009).

It is a practice of yoga that focuses on creating internal heat and pure, detoxifying sweat. Ashtanga uses breathing exercises in conjunction with a series of yoga poses to create a calm mind and a strong body.

The meaning of Ashtanga is “eight-limbed yoga”.

The eight limbs are a series of principles spoken about in the Yoga Sutras.

The eight limbs are: moral-codes, self-purification and study, posture, breath control, sense control, concentration, meditation, and absorption into the universe.

Ashtanga’s goal is to accomplish all of these principles.

Anusara

In 1997, John Friend founded Anusara yoga, creating a new form of an ancient practice.

Friend’s purpose was to “align with the Divine,” according to the official Anusara website. This is what many people think of when they think of yoga; Anusara is where the “Om” comes from. Aligning with the Divine occurs when people feel empowered and synchronize their breathing with poses to enhance a meditative state.

Yoga for you

The decision between Ashtanga and Anusara can be challenging, but consideration of your personal philosophies in contrast to the two practices is important.

An athletic person who favors structure would most likely find Ashtanga a better fit.

It will get you onto the path to becoming a better person while simultaneously giving you a great workout.

Anusara is more suitable for those who are a little looser with their philosophies.

The purpose of Anusara is also different than Ashtanga, but the workout is comprable.

Anusara wants people to feel good about themselves and the world around them.

Your Divine alignment will come from through this goodness.

Either way you decide to practice yoga, you’ll need a Yoga Mat!

Tags: Health / Fitness