Yoga, Anatomy, and the Human Machine
Understanding Yoga anatomy is critical to understanding the benefits and risks, of practicing and teaching, Yoga asanas or pranayama techniques. The study of human anatomy will teach you about the organization and intricate functioning of the human skeleton, muscles, internal organs, ligaments, tendons, and cartilage. A good Yoga instructor will have a firm foundation in the anatomy of Yoga, so that he or she is aware of the correct alignment of Yoga poses and the safest way to move in and out of the asanas. A firm understanding of the anatomy of the respiratory system is also very helpful for teaching Yoga students correct breathing techniques, which will leave them with a feeling of energized calmness.
If you are an aspiring Yoga instructor, a course in Yoga anatomy, with an emphasis on comparative anatomy, is a great foundation for your personal practice, or the sequencing of asanas in your Yoga classes. An understanding of comparative anatomy will also help you to ascertain the difference in your students’ musculature systems. Although human anatomy is remarkably similar from human machine to human machine, the anatomy of individuals can differ. A competent Yoga instructor will be able to see these differences and adjust a student’s alignment in the Yoga poses accordingly.
A thorough understanding of Yoga anatomy, as it relates to the human machine, will also teach you about the functioning of the nervous, circulatory, and digestive systems. Yoga teachers, who study anatomy, will learn how students are affected by a regular practice of Yoga asanas and pranayama techniques. This knowledge will benefit you, both on a personal level and a professional level, as a Yoga instructor. You will gain the knowledge of how to move in and out of the asanas safely. As time goes on, you will view the asanas and pranayama practices as therapeutic tools for creating health and balance amongst all of the systems of the human body. Read the rest of this entry »
Top 5 Yoga Styles
Have you ever thought about practicing yoga but are confused about all the different types that you have heard about or have seen listed at the gym? Each type is based on the same basic principles of Hatha Yoga. Hatha Yoga is a physical discipline that uses poses to develop control of the body. Check out this list below to find the style of yoga that best fits your body type and personality.
1. ANANDA: emphasis on meditation
Ananda brings yoga back to its spiritual origins. Its main goal is to raise your level of consciousness by emphasizing the natural effects of the yoga postures. It is also used to harmonize your body, mind and soul. Ananda is perfect for beginners. It is gentle and inwardly directed. It is not aggressive or aerobic. Its primary emphases are; developing correct alignment, being relaxed and using the postures to raise your consciousness
2. ASHTANGA: power yoga
Ashtanga means “8 limbs” in Sanskrit and is the yoga practice with 8 components: Morality, ethics, posture, breath control, sense control, concentration, meditation and absorption. Many yoga studios offer led Ashtanga classes. It is a very popular practice due to its intense athletic style. It appeals to those who like a sense of order and independence.
3. BIKRAM: hot yoga
Bikram yoga is also known as Hot Yoga. Hot Yoga is a series of poses done in a heated room. The temperature is usually between 95 – 100 degrees. The combination of the heat and vigorous poses makes the body very warm and more flexible. Make sure you drink plenty of water before an after class so you don’t get dehydrated. This one is not for pregnant women since it raises your core body temperature. Make sure to choose a studio that is certified to teach Bikram yoga.
4. ANUSARA: focused on the heart
Anusara means flowing with grace. This practice of yoga is very popular in the US. Its main philosophy is that all beings are inherently good and emphases heart opening. These classes are fun and have a very positive atmosphere. They contain a lot of alignment work and are great for students of all abilities. Read the rest of this entry »