At Hari OM School of Yoga and Ayurveda, our 200-hour teacher training program is designed to immerse you in the rich tapestry of yoga. This journey is not just about deepening your personal practice, but also about exploring the diverse schools of yoga. Let’s take a brief look at the different styles of yoga you will encounter and study in our program:
Hatha Yoga
History & Description: Hatha Yoga, often considered the foundation of all yoga styles, focuses on the physical aspects of practice. Originating in India, it is the most traditional form of yoga and emphasizes physical postures (asanas), breath control (pranayama), and meditation. Hatha is ideal for beginners due to its slower pace, which helps practitioners to master postures and understand their body’s alignment.
Ashtanga (Vinyasa) Yoga
History & Description: Developed by K. Pattabhi Jois, Ashtanga Yoga is a dynamic and physically demanding style. It involves synchronizing breath with a progressive series of postures—a process producing intense internal heat and a purifying sweat. This practice enhances strength, flexibility, and stamina.
Vinyasa Yoga
History & Description: Vinyasa, often called “flow yoga,” is characterized by stringing postures together so that you move from one to another, seamlessly, using breath. It’s fast-paced and vigorous, providing a good cardiovascular workout. No two vinyasa classes are the same, giving it a fluid, creative aspect.
Iyengar Yoga
History & Description: Developed by B.K.S. Iyengar, this style is noted for its attention to detail and precise alignment of postures. It often uses props, such as belts and blocks, to assist in performing asanas. It’s excellent for building strength and flexibility, and is particularly suitable for people with injuries.
Kundalini Yoga
History & Description: Kundalini Yoga, as taught by Yogi Bhajan, is an uplifting blend of spiritual and physical practices. It incorporates movement, dynamic breathing techniques, meditation, and chanting of mantras. The goal is to build physical vitality and increase consciousness.
Yin Yoga
History & Description: Yin Yoga is a slower-paced style where postures are held for longer periods. It targets deep connective tissues, like fascia, ligaments, joints, and bones. It’s a meditative approach to yoga, cultivating awareness of inner silence.
Restorative Yoga
History & Description: This is a gentle, calming, therapeutic kind of yoga that uses props to support the body to deepen the benefits of the poses. It’s soothing and nurturing, reducing stress and improving overall health.
Bikram Yoga
History & Description: Developed by Bikram Choudhury, this style is practiced in a room heated to 105°F (41°C) with a humidity of 40%. It consists of a series of 26 postures and two breathing exercises. It’s designed to systematically move fresh, oxygenated blood to every part of the body, promoting health and wellness.
