In order to fully understand yoga you need to realise there is much more to it than poses, breathing exercises, and relaxation techniques. Yoga is an ancient practice (some archealogical proofs dating from 3000 BCE) involving physcial, mental, and spiritual practices. There are six principle branches of yoga, each with a different focus.
Hatha yoga is what most people in the west associate with the word yoga. This branch is essentially physical yoga and involves various postures or poses (asanas), breathing exercises (pranayama) and relaxation. There are many yoga styles within this path.
Jnana yoga is yoga of the mind, and as such focuses on wisdom and intellect to overcome limitations. People practising this type of yoga believe that an open and rational mind is essential to knowing the spirit. Study & meditation are lifelong pursuits.
Bhakti yoga is the yoga of devotion and the most favoured practise in India. Individuals who follow this practise see the ‘One’ or the Divine in everyone and everything. There is an awareness of the relationship between the individual and the Divine which improves character.
Karma yoga centres on service. By doing selfless service you are free from negativity and selfishness. As you focus on good works you change your attitude, your soul and indeed your life destiny.
Mantra yoga is yoga of sacred sounds. It involves chanting a word or phrase, allowing the mind to follow its rhythm and meaning, until the emotions and consciousness achieve stillness.
Raja yoga is considered the King of Yoga, probably because most of its practitioners were member of religious and spiritual orders. This branch of yoga is based on the Eight Limbs as taught in the Yoga Sutras by Patanjali.
Hopefully this explains what yoga is, and what it is not, so that when you say, “Our class will be doing yoga this year,” you can answer parental questions as to exactly what you will be doing with more clarity and knowledge.
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love the break down of the different styles of yoga!
Thanks Donna! I am linking this to my site right now, this is great basic information for yoga parents and beginners.