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Yogis and Yoginis
When you hear the word yoga, what do you think of? If the first thing that comes into your head is an image of someone sitting in the lotus position with their eyes closed and their hands resting on their thighs, you’re not alone. The practice of yoga made its way from India into western culture a long time ago. The mindful form of exercise has become noticeably more popular in recent years. And rightly so, because alongside building physical strength, it also boosts mental health.
Next Sunday, 21 June 2020, is World Yoga Day. That is why we would like to give you a brief glimpse into the basics of yoga.
What is yoga?
Yoga is an ancient Indian spiritual practice that challenges, trains and nurtures the mind and body together. Yoga means “union” and was developed to improve health and teach mental discipline. A holistic and multifaceted health practice, yoga strengthens the muscles and improves posture, as well as harmonising the body, mind and soul.
Which types of yoga are the most common?
Hatha Yoga
This type of yoga is widespread and very popular. “Ha” means sun and “Tha” means moon. Hatha yoga particularly focuses on bringing the body’s functions into harmony (e.g., digestion, the hormone system, respiration). Its moderate pace makes Hatha yoga ideal for beginners trying out yoga for the first time.
Ashtanga Yoga
Ashtanga Yoga is characterised by holding dynamic, powerful postures (asanas) connected by flowing movements (vinyasas). The sequences here are always the same, meaning that your progress will soon be visible. Depending on your level, new postures can be added into the sequences.
Power Yoga
This type of yoga was developed in the USA from Ashtanga and has the character of a workout. The movement sequences are also dynamic here, and very demanding, completely overshadowing the spiritual aspect. This means that Power Yoga is suitable for you if you already have some yoga experience.
Yin Yoga
When you distance yourself from high-energy posture sequences, you find yin yoga. This is rather a calm and, generally speaking, passive yoga practice, that is mostly done sitting or lying down. The asanas are held for longer, during which you should breathe freely. This allows the deep muscles to relax, releasing underlying tensions. Yin yoga enables practitioners to find intense inner peace.
Vinyasa Yoga
Vinyasa yoga is not in itself a type of yoga, but you will hear the name frequently. What it should make you think of is a dynamic flow of intensity that varies depending on the teacher.
How do I begin?
We have put together a small selection of yoga videos for you. All you need to do is to put on something comfortable, click on the link, and get started. The virtual space provides the perfect chance to try out different types of yoga in the comfort of your own home.
Hatha Yoga
- ASVZ – Yoga with Iris
- Gsünder Basel – Hatha Yoga Class
- 37 Minutes of Hatha Yoga – Practising Mindfulness. The Rishikesh series
- Unisport Basel – Online Hatha Yoga course with Clara
- Unisport Basel – Online Yoga course with Viktor
- Unisport@home – Yoga with Eva
Vinyasa Yoga
Power Yoga
Yoga Flow
Yoga for beginners / basic exercises
- Yoga Tips
- High School Sport Potsdam – Yoga for Beginners with Jivan and Turiya
- Unisport Trier - Basic Yoga Exercises
- Yoga Warmup with Sabrina
