IS YOGA RIGHT FOR YOU? Demystifying 4 Styles (Hatha; Bikram; Kundalini; Tantric)

YOGA has been all the rage, worldwide, for years now … only continuing to increase in popularity. But while Yoga's beginnings can be traced back 5,000 years or more in Eastern cultures, it has only fairly recently been ‘discovered’ and popularized in Western society.

Many different styles of Yoga exist and most sessions are typically comprised of breathing exercises, meditation/relaxation and assuming postures (asanas) that stretch and flex the various muscle groups.

Hatha Yoga (the style of Yoga I teach in Enschede)
This is probably the most practiced form of yoga in the Western world. It focuses primarily on asanas or Yoga postures, as well as breathing (ahhhhhh :-). In my classes we explore the Bhandas; Mudras; some Kriyas and a wide range of poses for increased vitality, strength, balance and mental focus; also, special attention is given to conscious alignment and breath control. Meditating for long periods of time certainly requires physical and mental discipline and Hatha Yoga gets the body and mind in peak condition. If you're looking for a holistic approach to exercise, this is a wonderful option.

Bikram Yoga
Some like it hot. If you're one of those people, you might opt for Bikram Yoga. Performed in a room with the temperature at 105 F, this practice involves 26 yoga postures and two breathing exercises. Created by Bikram Choudhury and popular in every corner of the globe, it is particularly fashionable in California and among celebrities. Some may find the heat uncomfortable; definitely make sure you have a qualified Bikram instructor. And remember: you don't have to live in Beverly Hills to appreciate the benefits :-).

Kundalini Yoga
You've heard the expression "They're all heart…". In the Yoga landscape one would say that about Kundalini Yoga. Well it's all about heart, chakras, and kundalini energy - which is thought to be one's power lying dormant within. It is this concentration on the core of life energy that makes Kundalini one of the most challenging forms of Yoga. If you are ready to tap into your full potential in a responsible loving way, then try this unique and intense path. But remember: it’s not just another exercise class, it’s an emotional workout you must be prepared for as well.

Tantric Yoga
And … if you're looking for a form of exercise that will also bring about spiritual awakening and cosmic consciousness, then Tantric Yoga is for you. Here there is an emphasis on ridding yourself of bad habits that are toxic for your health, such as smoking and excessive drinking. You begin by renewing your whole being, by transferring energies to a higher spiritual plane. These methods are also applied to another aspect that has gained some recognition in the Western world: that is Tantric Sex. This focuses on delving deeper than the flesh for intimacy in body and spirit. So if you're looking for enlightenment and increased sexual function and stamina, Tantric may be just what the yogi ordered.

Deciding which style to practise is up to you; but, as you see, not all Yoga classes will be alike so do talk to the teacher to find out if the class is a good fit for your needs. Aim for THAT style of Yoga that will have you saying … "ahhhhhhh." :-)

Namaste Angel

Fyi …. A schedule of holiday classes with “some-interesting-bits” will be available for those not going away for all of the Summer holidays.

And … 3 month Beginners Courses (limited to 4 students a class) starting in September. Beginners are taught basic asanas (standing, sitting, back bending and reclining) as well as breath-control exercises and intro to meditation.