The term yoga refers to the state when individual consciousness merges with the cosmic consciousness. To get to that mystical existence, several physical and spiritual techniques are performed. These are the forms of yoga.
There are many routes to achieving this perfect synergy, from 'power' Ashtanga yoga that emphasizes athleticism and aerobics, to Bikram yoga performed in heated rooms, and Iyengar yoga, which incorporates props. An easy way for beginners to practice yoga is the peaceful Hatha form, which focuses on meditation, breathing, and holding the positions to maximize the stretch.
A typical Hatha yoga class is very relaxing and slow-paced. It begins with opening mantras (gajananam), and then moves on to breathing exercises (pranayama). Control of breath is an integral part of yoga and is a skill which you can use all day every day to relieve stress. After the breathing exercises your class will shift into poses (asanas) which are performed on comfortable mats. While you may fear that you'll be asked to contort your body into extreme positions, the reality is that many yoga poses are in fact stretches you have done since you were a child in gym class. The key is exact positioning, holding the pose, and breathing through it. The poses are carefully selected to increase blood flow throughout your body, gently massage your internal organs, and relieve tension. Hatha yoga isn't intended to exhaust you, but to relieve and relax you. As you progress, you'll find yourself with better posture, more energy, and a limberness you may have thought you'd never achieve.
