The Practice of Yoga

yoga practiceThere are two unique components in yoga—the philosophy and the practice. These two create a powerful interplay, with each informing and refining the other, to forge a unity of body-mind-spirt. Both the practice and philosophy of yoga have a long history and a rich depth of knowledge. They are both essential aspects to examine and investigate in the practice of yoga.

The 5 paths of yoga

There are five main branches of yoga. These traditional types of yoga include Tantric yoga, Karma yoga, Raja yoga, Jnana yoga and Bhakti yoga. These are not practiced on a yoga mat—they are the more internal and meditative aspects of classical yoga. In our yoga practice section, we primarily focus on the techniques and practices of hatha yoga, the physical or forceful path of yoga, which includes the physical poses and breathing techniques.

Styles of hatha yoga

There are many modern styles of hatha yoga. The most popular styles of yoga classes are Ashtanga yogaVinyasa yogaHot yoga, Gentle yogaRestorative yoga, and Yin yoga. These modern styles of yoga incorporate various amounts of asana (postures), pranayama (breathing exercises), kriya (cleansing practices), bandhas (energy locks), mudras (gestures), and meditation.

Why practice yoga?

Yoga students practice yoga because it helps them feel better about ourselves. There are many amazing benefits of yoga—it makes us stronger, calmer, happier, healthier, and more flexible. Yoga also gives us a chance to connect with our bodies, minds, and spirits in ways that no other physical activity does. A regular yoga practice allows us to explore parts of ourselves that we might otherwise ignore. It provides a safe space where we can try new things, fail, and try again. It teaches us patience, perseverance, balance and humility.

Students and yoga teachers report multiple reasons for adopting and maintaining a regular yoga practice. Most yoga practitioners begin by adopting the practice of yoga for exercise and stress relief, but later discover other reasons, such as relaxation, flexibility, improved health, reduced depression, and anxiety relief. For many, the primary reason for maintaining a yoga practice is spirituality.

Yoga for Beginners

Our Yoga for Beginners guide will give you all the tips, guidelines and recommendations you will need to start a successful yoga practice.

Meditation Basics

In our Meditation Basics section you will find the tools needed to focus and still your mind. The techniques of meditation are simple and easy to learn, but the ability to keep the mind focused takes time, patience and practice. The benefits of a regular meditation practice include reduction of stress, tension, anxiety and frustration, as well as improved memory, concentration, inner peace and whole body well-being.

Asana: Yoga Poses

Asana is defined as “posture or pose;” its literal meaning is “seat.” We have over 100 yoga poses in our asana index with full instructions and multi-photo illustrations. Yoga postures are combined together to create a flow or sequence of poses.

Pranayama: Yoga Breathing

Pranayamas are breathing exercises developed by the ancient yogis for purification. Prana translates into “life force energy” and Yama translates into “control or mastery of.” Thus, Pranyama is used to control, cultivate, and modify the Prana in the body.

  • Surya Bhedana Pranayama

    Surya Bhedana Pranayama (Sun-Piercing Breath)

  • Chandra Bhedana Pranayama

    Chandra Bhedana Pranayama (Moon-Piercing Breath)

  • Home Yoga Mistakes

    14 Major Home Yoga Mistakes to Avoid

  • How Long to Hold a Yoga Pose

    How Long to Hold a Yoga Pose: Factors, Benefits and Guidelines

  • Violet Flame Meditation

    Violet Flame Meditation: Technique, Benefits and Best Videos

  • Bahya Pranayama

    Bahya Pranayama: Benefits, Tips and Technique

  • yoga class before meditation

    Yoga Before Meditation: 11 Poses to Practice

  • How to Learn Yoga Poses

    How to Learn Yoga Poses: 13 Tips for Beginners

  • Yoga Class for Beginners

    Which Yoga Class Is Best for Beginners?

  • Chanting Mantras

    Mantras: Definition, Types, Benefits and Powers

  • Visualization Meditation

    Visualization Meditation: Types, Techniques and Tips

  • Types of Yoga Asanas

    13 Different Types of Yoga Asanas

  • Asanas meaning

    Asanas: Meaning, Definition and Purpose

  • Common Yoga Symbols

    The Meaning and Use of Common Yoga Symbols

  • Gratitude Meditation

    Gratitude Meditation: Benefits, Tips and Technique

Yoga Basics