Four types of yoga were discussed in a previous post, ashtanga yoga, iyengar yoga, bikram yoga and viniyoga. In this article, I’d like to discuss a few more types of yoga that you can either purchase a DVD about or take lessons at your local yoga center, YM/YWCA or at evening classes.

Keep in mind that some of these types of yoga are relatively “young” (less than 40 years old) and may be a mix of other, older types of yoga plus a new “twist” the originator may have put on the style.

Kundalini

The kundalini type of yoga is often called the mother of all yoga. This is a very powerful style of yoga as its focus is on the use of breath in conjunction with physical movement. The purpose of this yoga is to release energy in the lower body in order to move it throughout the body. Kundalini yoga uses fast, repetitive movements rather than poses that are held for a long time. In addition this type of yoga often includes chanting.

Anusara

Anusara yoga is a relatively new type of yoga, as it was founded in 1997 by John Friend. Anusara yoga is a combination of physical alignment with a philosophy that looks for the goodness in all people and things. There is an emphasis on creative freedom and individuality.

Kripalu

Kripalu yoga is a style of hatha yoga. This type of yoga focuses on meditation, spritual transformation and physical healing. Practicing this yoga encourages individuals to “look within” for answers instead of depending on external sources for knowledge as well as developing a close, nurturing relationship with your body.

Jivamukti

Jivamukti, much like anusara, is a modern style of yoga derived from the founders David Life and Shron Gannon. Basically, the founders combined their study of ashtanga yoga with a philosophy of how to bring yogic principles out of the studio into the practitioner’s every day life. If you attend a Jivamukti class, be prepared for a healthy workout as well as some chanting.

As you can well see, there are so many different types of yoga – there is something out there for everyone.