Why are there so many types of Yoga poses?
Below are the different types of Yoga posture. Each type has its own purpose and function to aid the body and mind. A combination of all of the different types of Yoga postures across a class helps to work all of the organs, tissues, and cells of the body.
Sitting Asanas
Sitting Asanas help to work the hips, knees, ankles and muscles of the groin. They also help to take away tension in the diaphragm and throat helping to make breathing smoother and easier. Sitting positions keep the spin aligned as well as soothing the mind and stretching the heart. Another benefit of a sitting posture is that it increases blood circulation to all parts of the body.
Standing Asanas
Standing positions strengthen the leg muscles and joints and aid in the movement and strengthening of the spine. Standing positions help keep the spine mobile and in alignment. During standing postures the arteries of the legs are stretched, this increases blood supply to the lower limbs as well as toning the cardiovascular system.
Forward bends
When completing a forward bend the abdominal organs are moved, this allows the sympathetic nervous system to be rested, brining down the pulse rate and blood pressure. Stress is relieved from the mind, and the adrenal glands are also soothed allowing them to function more efficiently. The heart is relieved of the strain of pumping blood due to being in a horizontal position.
Twists
Twists are great to encourage a healthy spine. During a twist the abdominal organs are squeezed and flushed with blood. Twists also aid in relieving problems in the spine, hip and groin.
Inversions
These postures help to flush the brain, heart and lungs with blood. Inversions also relieve pressure on the feet and ankles.
Back Bends
Back bends stimulate the central nervous system and increase its ability to handle stress. This therefore, means they can help to relieve tension, stress and nervous exhaustion. Back bends also energise the body and help people suffering from depression.
Reclining Asanas
These postures are created to rest and soothe the body. They may occur at the end of a class to encourage rest or towards the beginning of a class to prepare the body for more strenuous postures.
For more information try the following sources:
B.K.S. Iyengar, Yoga the path to holistic health, DK Publishers, 2001
Leslie Kaminoff & Amy Matthews, Yoga Anatomy, The Breathe Trust, 2012
Ray Long, The Key Muscles of Yoga, Bandah Yoga Publications, 2006
Ray Long, The Key Poses of Yoga, Bandah Yoga Publications, 2008
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