Yoga is an ancient spiritual practice that seeks harmony between the mind and body. Originating from India, this discipline offers different types of yoga, each with specific health benefits.
According to the Indian Ministry of Ayurveda, Yoga and Naturopathy, there are at least eight types of yoga. We explain what they are and what advantages they have.
What types of yoga are there?
These include japa yoga, which removes mental impurities and calms the nerves; Karma Yoga, which teaches performing actions without expecting a reward; and Gyana Yoga, a path of knowledge and practice to discover reality.
In addition, you can practice bhakti yoga, which seeks union with the divine; Raja Yoga, also known as Ashtanga Yoga, which strengthens independence and personal authenticity; Swara Yoga, which focuses on breath control; Kundalini Yoga, a tantric practice leading to divine liberation; and Nadi Yoga, which works on the flow of energy through the body.
What are the benefits of yoga, depending on the type?
Each type of yoga has its specific approach and health benefits. Yoga helps to achieve a perfect balance between mind and body and promotes psychophysiological health and emotional harmony.
According to the United Nations Guidelines for Yoga During COVID-19, yoga is particularly helpful in managing daily stress and may help treat various non-communicable diseases such as high blood pressure, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), bronchial asthma, diabetes, sleep disorders and depression.
Yoga has become a popular practice around the world and more and more people are realizing its health benefits. From prisons in San Diego County, California to outdoor picnics at Chihilsitoon Palace in Kabul, Afghanistan, yoga is practiced in a wide variety of settings and benefits people of all ages and medical conditions.
