If you're interested in a vigorous aerobic workout along with challenging stretches and other poses, Ashtanga may be the right style of yoga for you. Ashtanga means "eight limbs" in Sanskrit. Like many other styles of yoga, Ashtanga is traditionally a comprehensive way of life, and the eight limbs it refers to include yoga poses, breathing exercises, ethical rules and more. However, like most other yoga classes, Ashtanga classes generally focus on physical poses and are open to people with a variety of spiritual beliefs. You will need to take a class (or at least get a book or video) to really learn to do Ashtanga yoga, but this tutorial should give you an idea of what is involved.
Survive Bikram Yoga
You finally let your friend talk you into trying Bikram Yoga despite the fact that everyone else you know laughs at the mention of people writhing in 100-degree heat. Now, you're standing in that hot room sweating from pores you didn't know you had and wondering if anyone has ever died doing this or if you'll be the first. Here are some keys to surviving your first Bikram Yoga class.
Do Humming Yoga Breathing Exercise
To learn deeper, healthier breathing, do the humming yoga breathing exercise, also known as Brahmari or the Humming Bee. This exercise not only helps you learn how to better control your breathing, but also improves the circulation of blood in your body, loosens congestion in the chest and creates in you a meditative state of mind.
Learn Yoga Free Online
A basic Google search of the phrase "free yoga classes" will turn up countless videos and instructions for general exercises. Once you settle on a yoga instructor or facility, you will need to set up your own plan to "learn" the practice on your own. You will be on your own to overcome the great disadvantage of working online -- there is no teacher in the room to help you mark your progress or encourage you to keep going.
Do Yoga Ujjayi Breath
You're in yoga class and the teacher keeps mentioning ujjayi breath, but you're thinking "How do I do this" and also "What is it for?" Here are steps to engage your own ujjayi breath and to learn about its importance.