Yoga has become extremely popular over the last decade, and countless studios are now offering classes across the globe.
Each of these claims offers the most authentic service, the unique flows, and the most experienced teachers – but just how many yoga poses are there? So we decided to take a closer look.
What Is Yoga?
Yoga was initially developed in India around 5000 years ago. It involves stretching and breathing exercises designed to improve flexibility, strength, balance, and concentration.
The origins of yoga can be traced back to ancient Indian philosophy. The word “yoga” is derived from two Sanskrit words: yuj, meaning “union” or “unification,” and asan, meaning “to hold.”
This union refers to the connection between the mind and the body; at its core, the practice of yoga is based upon the belief that by uniting with your breath, you will achieve greater awareness and peace of mind.
It is also believed that focusing on the present moment will experience less stress and anxiety.
The belief seems to hold some weight; it has been proven that regular yoga can help reduce blood pressure, lower cholesterol levels, increase self-confidence, and even boost immune function!
There are hundreds of different types of yoga poses. Some focus on strengthening muscles, some aim at relaxing the body, and others focus on improving mental clarity.
How Many Yoga Poses Are There?
The exact number of yoga poses varies depending on your school of thought.
For example, Iyengar yoga focuses on precise alignment and precision movement, while Ashtanga emphasizes physical fitness.
Other schools include Bikram yoga (which is practiced in hot rooms), Kundalini, and Vinyasa flow.
The number of yoga poses can vary greatly too. For example, a typical class might have 20-30 poses, whereas a more advanced class may have upwards of 50.
What Are The Main Schools Of Yoga?
There are several “schools” of yoga, and the main ones include:
- Iyengar yoga – this is one of the oldest forms of yoga, dating back thousands of years. It is known for being very specific about posture and alignment.
- Ashtanga yoga – this style originated in India and focused on building strength through postures.
- Bikram yoga – this form of yoga is practiced in heated rooms and aims to cleanse the body and purify the mind.
- Kundalini yoga – this type of yoga is often associated with tantra and is said to bring spiritual enlightenment.
- Vinyasa flow – this style of yoga uses flowing sequences of movements and is usually performed outdoors.
- Kripalu yoga – this style of hatha yoga is considered to be gentle and is suitable for beginners.
- Hatha yoga – this exercise style is based on the premise that the body is made up of three parts: the head, torso, and limbs. Hatha yoga aims to strengthen all three areas simultaneously.
- Integral yoga – this approach combines many styles of yoga into an integrated system.
- Yin yoga – this style of meditation is said to calm the nervous system and relax the body.
- Meditation – this technique is used to clear the mind and allow you to gain insight into yourself. Meditation techniques vary widely, but they all involve sitting quietly and focusing on your thoughts. For example, you may use guided meditations or close your eyes and listen to music.
What Are Some Of The Main Yoga Poses?
Here are some of the most popular yoga poses and their benefits.
- Downward Facing Dog – This pose helps stretch your hamstrings and strengthen your legs. It also improves your balance.
- Warrior Pose – this pose works your arms, shoulders, chest, abs, and core. It’s also good for stretching those pesky calves.
- Seated Forward Bend – this pose stretches your spine, relieves tension in your neck and shoulders, and increases flexibility.
- Child’s Pose – This pose calms the nervous system and allows you to take deep breaths. It also reduces stress levels and promotes relaxation.
- This pose is excellent for opening up tight hips and lower backs. It also tones muscles and helps improve circulation.
- Tree Pose – This pose helps build strength in your upper body and improves your balance. It’s also helpful for strengthening your lungs.
- Standing Forward Fold – this pose loosens stiff joints and improves flexibility. It also stimulates blood flow and relieves fatigue.
- Standing Side Stretch – This pose opens up your hips and improves balance and coordination.
- Triangle Pose – this pose stretches your chest, shoulders, and thighs. It also strengthens your abdominal muscles and improves balance, concentration, and breathing.
- Triangle Pose With Arms Extended Above Head – this pose strengthens your arms and improves your balance and ability to focus.
- Half Moon Pose – this pose is a great way to open up your hips and relieve back pain. It also improves your posture.
- Pigeon Pose – this pose improves your balance and relieves shoulder and neck tension.
- Cow Face Pose – this pose strengthens your jaw and improves your digestion. It also relieves headaches and eases cramps.
- Cat/Cow Pose – this pose is excellent for improving your posture and relieving stress. It also enhances your sense of smell.
- Bow Pose – This pose is known to help reduce anxiety and improve your mood. It also enhances your confidence and makes you feel more relaxed.
- Plank Pose – This pose is excellent for building muscle and improving your balance. It also relieves stress and improves your lung capacity.
- Plow Pose – this pose strengthens the muscles in your abdomen and relieves stress. It also improves digestion and relieves constipation.
Final Thoughts
Yoga can be an incredible addition to your daily workout routine and offers many benefits for your mind, body, and spirit.
With so many schools, poses, and types of yoga available, you are sure to find something that suits your needs – and this can have a life-changing effect.