A Wisdom Archive on Benefit Bikram Yoga

Anusara yoga is a modern school of yoga started by John Friend in 1997; it is a hatha yoga with a Tantric philosophy. Friend continues to take an active role leading the expansion of the school and training (and certifying) teachers. The emphasis of the school is on a set of "universal" alignment principles all postures, "heart opening" postures and the spiritual/meditative benefits of hatha yoga. Attainable bliss and joy in practice and everyday life are an important aspect of the underlying philosophy of this school. Many western students ... Including:

• Anusara Yoga - Opening Invocation

Read more here: » Anusara Yoga: Encyclopedia - Anusara Yoga

Iyengar Yoga, created by B.K.S. Iyengar, is a form of yoga known for its use of props, such as belts and blocks, as aids in performing asanas. It is firmly based on the traditional eight limbs of yoga as expounded by Patanjali in his Yoga Sutras, emphasizing the development of strength, stamina, flexibility and balance, as well as concentration (Dharana) and meditation (Dhyana). Iyengar Yoga is characterized by great attention to detail and precise focus on body alignment. Iyengar pioneered the use of "props" such as cushions, ... Including:

• Iyengar Yoga - External link

Read more here: » Iyengar Yoga: Encyclopedia - Iyengar Yoga

Tumo (also spelled Tummo, or Tum-mo ) is a Tibetan term for an advanced type of meditation practiced by those wishing to attain enlightenment within a single lifetime. Tummo practice can cause an intense sensation of body heat to arise. Tummo is taught as one part of the six yogas of Naropa. Stories and eyewitness accounts abound of yogi practitioners being able to generate sufficient heat to dry wet sheets draped around their naked bodies while sitting outside in the freezing cold, not just once, but multiple times. These observations have also been discussed in medic ...

Read more here: » Tumo: Encyclopedia - Tumo

Asana is Sanskrit for "seat". It is no accident that this word be chosen to describe the "posture" of Yoga. The idea of the "seat" in this context refers not only to the physical position of the body, but to the position of the spirit in relation to Divinity. This idea is often referred to as the "One Seat", by Yogis and Buddhists alike. Modern usage of the word asana in reference to the practice of Yoga generally intends the lesser definition; a physical posture or pose. Patanjali, in the Yoga Sutra describes asanaIncluding:

• Asana - Conditions & general directions for Good Asana
• Asana - Yoga Asana Poses or Postures

Read more here: » Asana: Encyclopedia - Asana

Modern yoga practice often includes traditional elements inherited from Hinduism, such as moral and ethical principles, postures designed to keep the body fit, spiritual philosophy, instruction by a guru, chanting of mantras (sacred syllables), quietening the breath, and stilling the mind through meditation. These elements are sometimes adapted to meet the needs of non-Hindu practitioners. Proponents of yoga see daily practice as beneficial in itself, leading to improved health, emotional well-being, mental clarity, and joy in living. ...

Read more here: » Yoga: Encyclopedia II - Yoga - Yoga practice and intention