Yoga is one of the most widely practiced forms of meditation in the United States. Large fitness centers have incorporated these classes into their schedules and independent yoga centers have sprouted up to appeal to an emerging demographic of people looking to eat healthy and live better. There are many different types of meditation and yoga to choose from, such as Kripalu, Kundalini, Iyengar, Ashtanga, Sivananda and Bikram, so it can be confusing to choose which one is right for you. Here is a rundown of the various styles you may come across.
Iyengar Yoga Meditation (as developed by Yogi B.K.S. Iyengar) uses a number of props to help individuals reach certain body positions (asanas) and alignments. Students of varying levels can use wooden blocks to raise the floor level or cotton straps to assist in stretching. Many students find the Iyengar meditation methods effective for treating sports injuries or improving flexibility. Your teacher will pay close attention to your precise posing and will help you correct any imperfections so you can achieve the maximum benefit. Iyengar Yoga is best for new students who like the hands-on assistance and learning all the poses.
Kundalini Yoga Meditation uses breathing techniques to clear a path for “chakra” energy to flow throughout your body’s centers. The word Kundalini comes from the Indian word “kundal,” which means “lock of hair from the beloved.” It is believed that creative energy is stored in the base of the spine and that this energy can be unlocked through posing and chanting during this Buddhist meditation. This form of yoga is great for people who are looking for more spiritual meditation that does not focus so intensely on fitness.
Most yoga meditation occurs in a group setting, with 10-20 other students and a trained teacher. Often times, incense is lit and light music plays in the background. If you’re new to how meditation works and how yoga works, then you may want to purchase a book that shows you the various poses so you don’t feel lost in the class. Some meditation styles — like Iyengar, Kundalini and Sivananda — move at a slower pace, which is helpful for beginners; whereas, Bikram Yoga and Ashtanga Yoga are more intense for people who are generally drawn toward more active workouts.
Beth Kaminski is the co-author of Curing Your Anxiety And Panic Attacks which detailed treating panic disorder as well as tips on the various medications for panic disorder available at anxietydisordercure.com.
