Lately, I have realised that many people, either just go to yoga practises or are strictly gym rats. Why is there this divide? What are you group-exercising, weight-lifting body sculptors so afraid of?
After long investigations I have made the conclusion that most people just don’t know the benefits of combining both: general fitness and yoga. Why is it important to integrate a downward dog with a sit-up?
Yoga intro-guide for the gym junky
There are many different types of yoga to practice, so it’s important to find out which type of yoga is right for you and your fitness goals. Here’s a quick introduction to some of the most common and popular types of yoga:
Bikram Yoga - Get ready to practice yoga in 105 degree heat and in 40% humidity - hot! Bikram has a series of 26 poses that work on your overall alignment. Did I mention the calories you burn! This is well suited for the person who wants to detox and loose some extra weight.
Hatha Yoga - Great for beginners or the infelxible, Hatha typically requires a lot of breath work. Classes will usually focus on slow and gentle movements. If you have a lot of stress in your life and some tight hamstrings, take a class to see how it makes you feel. Great!
Vinyasa Yoga - Vinyasa is usually a fast-paced type of yoga with lots of different poses. If you thought yoga was too slow-paced and repetitive for you- then you are mistaken. Sick of your routine? You will never get bored with Vinyasa because no two classes are the same.
Kundalini Yoga - “Kundalini” refers to the energy of the Root Chakra, which surrounds the area around your lower spine. Expect lots of work on your “core” and your abs. You should also expect rapid movement.
Ashtanga Yoga - Commonly called Power yoga, Ashtanga is physically demanding. It’s probably best suited for the athlete in you! Be prepared to be sore.
Iyengar Yoga - Expect lots of props with this type of yoga such as blocks, harnesses, straps, and even cushions. There’s also a lot of focus on alignment so Iyengar can be great for physical therapy and rehabilitation.
Kripalu Yoga - Considered to be one of the most gentle forms of yoga, Kripalu has more of an “inner focus.” It’s a great type of yoga for those who are either out-of-shape or just beginning to practice.
Restorative Yoga - Looking to wind down after a long day of work? Or perhaps you want to quiet your mind? Restorative yoga might be the answer to your method of relaxation.
N E W S F L A S H
‘The art of Body’ is opening a new fitness and yoga studio in Sanur!
For more information please contact me at ns@theartofbody.com
HIRING: qualified yoga instructors and personal trainers!
Please send your resume to ns@theartofbody.com
Natalie is the founder of THE ART OF BODY - a health services company in Bali that features personal training, pilates and physio. As a health consultant with years of experience in Canada and USA, she currently lives as a personal trainer in Bali. For further inquiries please visit : www.theartofbody.com or e-mail : ns@theartofbody.com or 081 2389 0999.
You can read all past articles of The Art of Body at www.BaliAdvertiser.biz
