The World of Yogis

Yoga has been a hot (literally) fitness trend throughout the years, but a lot of people don’t know what kind of yoga is out there, how it benefits you, and where to go to engage in it. I don’t consider myself a yogi, but I do yoga once in a while to relax, and I recommend everyone to do it!! We all know as students school is stressful, so destress with a little yoga session.

Learn about the many types of yoga from Dailyburn.com including…

Hatha- all about the basics, in a slower moving class (beginners start here!)

Vinyasa- links movements and breaths together at a quicker pace

Iyengar- more about precision and detail, holding movements for long periods of time (for those who are detail oriented or perfectionists)

Ashtanga- specifically sequenced yoga poses, in a routine

Bikram- vigorous yoga with a series of 26 poses in a heated room

Hot yoga- vigorous yoga, not limited to 26 poses in a heated room (for the hardcore sweat lovers)

Kundalini- spiritual practice while physical exercises are linked with breathing and meditation

Yin- targets deeper connective tissue with long movements, not fast paced

Restorative- slow moving, stretching, and relaxation is the goal (good for those who cannot relax, or those with anxiety)

There are many physical and mental benefits of yoga if you maintain a regular yoga practice. Stated by Osteopathic.org, some benefits are…

Physical-

Lower blood pressure

Reduced insomnia (perfect for high school students am I right?)

Increased flexibility

Increased muscle strength

Less chronic pain

Mental-

Creates calmness

Sharpens concentration

Helps manage stress

Better breathing

Don’t believe me? Well, let’s ask Mrs. Wiedmann, our high school PE teacher, why yoga is healthy for your mind and body. Mrs. Wiedmann stated that yoga “helps your flexibility, balance, and core strength.”

Lastly, not many people know where to go to get yoga sessions and I’m right here with ya. Where can you become a professional yogi? Let’s start with places in Des Moines!

Powerlife Yoga

Shakti Yoga Shop

Adamantine Yoga

The Family Tree

Gray’s Lake Yoga in the Park (free!)

For a place in Norwalk, check out the Souls Garden located across from the new Casey’s!

After experiencing yoga for the first time, I felt the physical and mental changes after just the first class, and I have been continuing to go ever since. Yoga is extremely relaxing, and has been a hot fitness trend for years, clearly improving lifestyles!