Yoga is an ancient form of practice based on a harmonising system that focuses on strength, flexibility and breathing to boost physical and mental wellbeing. Yoga has become increasingly popular in today’s modern and busy world. It is a way for people to slow down and be present. Yoga can provide you with many mental and physical benefits.
The Health Benefits of Yoga
There has been a lot of research into the benefits of yoga and it seems that most suggest that yoga is a safe and effective way to increase physical activity, to increase strength and flexibility and improve balance. There is some evidence that yoga is beneficial for those with stress or depression.
Can Yoga count towards my quota of activity for the week?
Most forms of yoga are not strenuous enough to count towards your quota set out by the government guidelines for the week. However, yoga is a strengthening exercise and does count towards muscle strengthening exercises. Activities such as yoga and tai chi are also recommended for older adults as strengthening, coordination and balancing exercises, thus helping to risk falls.
How many types of yoga are there?
Believe it or not, there are over 100 different types of yoga. Some are more fast paced than others and some are more intense. You can also find some that are more relaxing and gentle.
Some of the more gentle and relaxing forms of yoga are as follows:
- Hatha. This yoga combines a series of basic movements with breathing. This type is most often associated with yoga as it combines a series of basic movements with breathing.
- Vinyasa. This type combines a series of poses that flow smoothly into one another.
- Power. This higher intensity and faster yoga builds muscle.
- Ashtanga. This is a series of poses that is combined with a special breathing technique.
- Bikram. This type of yoga is also known as "hot yoga," it's a series of 26 challenging poses performed in a room that has been heated to a high temperature.
- Iyengar. Iyengar yoga uses props such as blocks, straps, and chairs. These props are thought to help you move your body into the proper alignment.
