The term Yoga comes from Sanskrit meaning Yoke, or union. In the practice of yoga we seek to create a union between the mind and body. Yoga is perfect example of holistic health because of this combination of mind and body. Also, the body cannot exist without mind and vice versa is true too. Mind is well repaired when the body is repaired. Tension in the neck, shoulders, or hips makes it difficult to relax and be happy. In order to do this Yoga is comprised of physical posture and a philosophy that provides tools to finding true, lasting happiness.^1,2

DIFFERENT TYPES OF YOGA:²

While the philosophy remains the same among different disciplines, the physical aspects of yoga come in a few forms.

• Vinyasa- This is a strengthening flow class in which postures lead into postures. It is the coordinate movement with breath to flow from one pose to the next.
• Hatha- Here, postures are held for a few minutes. This is believed to really affect the body, as each posture provides health benefits. The post is more effective if held for longer time.
• Vini- a gentle type of yoga, well suited for beginners, or for those who’d like to go at a slower pace.
• Kundalini- This type of yoga follows that nerve centers in human body have tendency to clog up or inactivate which leads to ill health. Kundalini’s repetitive posture flows (kriyas) reverse these blocks and give you a feeling of being energized yet peaceful.
• Mantra Yoga- This Yoga has its origin in Vedic Sciences and Tantra, in fact all the verses in Vedas are called mantras, it is believed that anyone who can chant or sing Vedas can achieve the ultimate salvation or union with supreme consciousness only by chanting mantras, which is the aim Mantra Yoga.
• Kriya Yoga- The word kriya means 'activity' and relates to the activity or movement of consciousness. It consists of a number of levels of pranayama, mantra, and mudra based on techniques intended to rapidly accelerate spiritual development. Kriya also refers to a type of preliminary practice which leads to total union which is the final result of practice. Kriya Yoga does not curb mental fluctuations but creates activity and awakening in consciousness. By this, all faculties are harmonised and flower into their fullest potential.

References

1. Sri Swami Sivananda, Easy Steps To Yoga, A Divine Life Society Publication, 2000.
2. http://revolutionyogaspace.com/pdf/yogabenefit.pdf
3. Miller, Timothy (1995). America's Alternative Religions. SUNY Press. p. 178/183. ISBN 0791423972.
4. J Altern Complement Med.2010 Jan;16(1):3-12. doi: 10.1089/acm.2009.0044. The health benefits of yoga and exercise: a review of comparison studies. Ross A1, Thomas S.
5. Int J Yoga. 2011 Jul-Dec; 4(2): 49–54. Exploring the therapeutic effects of yoga and its ability to increase quality of life . Catherine Woodyard