Have you already taken a deep breath today and paused for a moment to really find yourself? In a world that is becoming ever louder, faster and more chaotic, many of us long for an anchor, a place of calm in the midst of everyday life.
Yoga can offer precisely this space. Yoga is far more than just a physical exercise. Yoga is an invitation to meet yourself, release blockages and find your own center again.
How does yoga work and which type of yoga is the right one?
Imagine taking a deep breath in and out! All your worries, fears and problems are unimportant at this moment, because you are fully focused on yourself. It’s just you, your breath, the gentle movements of your body and the yoga mat you’re sitting on.
The term ‘yoga’ is derived from the Sanskrit word ‘yuj’, which means ‘to connect’. As the name suggests, yoga creates a conscious connection between body, mind and soul.
The three basic components of breath control (pranayama), meditation (dhyana) and postures (asanas) create an inner stillness that extends far beyond the yoga mat.
It is not for nothing that classical texts such as the Yoga Pradipika or the Gheranda Samhita describe this practice as a holistic path to enlightenment, clarity and ultimately health on all levels. And even today, many centuries later, people around the world are still experiencing the transformative power of this ancient teaching.
However, there are now many different forms of yoga, which doesn’t exactly make the choice easy.
Perhaps you have already asked yourself which type of yoga is right for you. In the following, we will introduce you to some forms of yoga so that you can find out which style of yoga is best suited to your needs.
Hatha Yoga – the power of the base
Hatha yoga is one of the most well-known types of yoga and forms the basis for many modern styles. Hatha yoga practice is particularly calm and mindful. The focus is on breathing, correct posture and stability.
As this style allows for precise learning and individual pacing, it is perfect for beginners.
Hatha yoga helps you to release tension, gently strengthen your muscles and calm your thoughts.
Iyengar Yoga – precision meets mindfulness
The Iyengar Yoga practiced here, named after the Indian yoga master B.K.S. Iyengar, is also based on the Hatha style. In Iyengar yoga at the Ayurveda Resort Mandira, we place particular emphasis on precise body alignment and holding the asanas for longer. Aids such as blocks, straps or blankets help you to achieve the ideal posture.
This style is particularly suitable for beginners, those with orthopaedic problems or deep-seated tension.
Yin Yoga – relaxation on a deep level
Yin yoga, on the other hand, is a meditative, very passive style of yoga in which the positions are held for several minutes. The deep stretching works on your fascial tissue, calms the nervous system and brings you gently into contact with your inner feelings.
Anyone looking to slow down will find deep regeneration in this type of yoga.
Kundalini Yoga – the awakening of life energy
Kundalini Yoga, as passed on by Swami Sivananda and spread by Sivananda Yoga, works specifically with breathing exercises, mantras and meditation.
The aim of Kundalini Yoga is to awaken the “serpent power” (Kundalini), which rests at the base of the spine.
This form brings deep mental clarity and can release emotional blockages. Especially in times of upheaval and inner searching, Kundalini Yoga offers you a deeply spiritual access to yourself.
Raja Yoga – the royal path of meditation
Raja Yoga is also known as the “royal yoga path” and, like Kundalini Yoga, emphasizes the spiritual aspects of the practice. Meditation is the focus here, while the physical exercises take a back seat.
Aerial and Ashtanga yoga – for weightlessness, strength and discipline
Aerial and Ashtanga yoga are both physically demanding types of yoga.
Aerial yoga is a modern form of yoga in which you float in the air with the help of cloths. This playful but also challenging variation relieves pressure on the joints while promoting strength, balance and flexibility. Aerial yoga is particularly beneficial for the spine and a wonderful way to experience yourself from a new perspective.
Ashtanga yoga is a powerful, dynamic practice in which fixed series of exercises are practiced in a flowing sequence. Breath, movement and gaze are precisely coordinated. This style of yoga strengthens the muscles, promotes stamina and at the same time demands maximum concentration. If you are looking for a physical challenge and want to strengthen your willpower, Ashtanga could be your path.
Which yoga is suitable for your needs?
Regardless of whether you already have yoga experience or are on the mat for the first time – yoga is suitable for every age, every life situation and every need.
The important thing is that you find the form that suits your nature and supports you on your own personal path.
At our yoga retreats at the Ayurveda Resort Mandira, we will be happy to help you find your way and find the right style for you and find more peace in your everyday life.
Our yoga classes are tailored to your individual needs. Our experienced teachers will guide you carefully through the yoga exercises – whether you want to start gently with Hatha Yoga or deepen your practice with Iyengar Yoga or Kundalini Yoga.
In our yoga retreats, we combine yoga exercises with Ayurvedic healing, a balanced diet and regenerating treatments. This creates a profound balance for body, mind and soul – far away from everyday life, amidst the gentle landscape of Styria.
