Types of Yoga

There are many different types of yoga, each with its own focus and approach. Here are some of the most popular types of yoga:

 

Hatha Yoga: This is the most common form of yoga, and focuses on physical postures and breathing techniques to balance the body and mind.

Vinyasa Yoga: This style of yoga is more dynamic and fast-paced, with a focus on flowing movements that are synchronized with the breath.

Ashtanga Yoga: This is a more intense and physically demanding form of yoga, with a set sequence of postures that are performed in a specific order.

Bikram Yoga: This style of yoga is practiced in a heated room and consists of a specific sequence of 26 postures and two breathing exercises.

Iyengar Yoga: This form of yoga emphasizes proper alignment and uses props like blocks, straps, and blankets to help students achieve correct postures.

Kundalini Yoga: This style of yoga focuses on awakening the energy at the base of the spine and bringing it up through the chakras.

Yin Yoga: This is a slow-paced style of yoga that targets the connective tissues and aims to improve flexibility and release tension.

Restorative Yoga: This style of yoga uses props like bolsters and blankets to support the body in gentle, relaxing poses that promote deep rest and relaxation.

Power Yoga: This is a more vigorous and athletic form of yoga that incorporates strength training exercises and high-intensity movements.

Jivamukti Yoga: This style of yoga incorporates physical postures, chanting, meditation, and spiritual teachings into a dynamic and challenging practice.

 

Hatha Yoga

Hatha Yoga is a form of yoga that focuses on physical postures, breathing techniques, and meditation to achieve balance and harmony in the body and mind. The practice of Hatha Yoga dates back to ancient times, and its roots can be traced back to the 15th century text, the Hatha Yoga Pradipika. The word "hatha" is derived from two Sanskrit words, "ha" and "tha," which mean sun and moon, respectively. This reflects the belief that Hatha Yoga aims to balance opposing forces in the body and mind, such as strength and flexibility, effort and relaxation, and activity and stillness.

 

The practice of Hatha Yoga involves a variety of physical postures, or asanas, that are designed to stretch and strengthen the muscles, improve flexibility and balance, and stimulate the body's internal organs. Some of the most common asanas in Hatha Yoga include the mountain pose, downward dog, warrior pose, and child's pose. Each asana is typically held for several breaths, with a focus on proper alignment and awareness of the body's sensations and movements.

 

Breathing techniques, or pranayama, are also an important part of the Hatha Yoga practice. These techniques are designed to help regulate the breath and bring awareness to the body's internal rhythms. Common pranayama techniques include deep belly breathing, alternate nostril breathing, and the breath of fire.

 

In addition to physical postures and breathing techniques, Hatha Yoga also incorporates meditation and relaxation techniques to help calm the mind and reduce stress. These techniques may include guided visualization, mantra chanting, or progressive muscle relaxation.

 

The benefits of Hatha Yoga are numerous and can be experienced by practitioners of all levels and abilities. Regular practice of Hatha Yoga can help improve flexibility, strength, and balance, as well as reduce stress and anxiety, improve sleep quality, and boost overall physical and mental health. In addition, Hatha Yoga has been shown to be an effective complementary therapy for a variety of health conditions, including chronic pain, depression, and high blood pressure.

 

One of the key principles of Hatha Yoga is ahimsa, or non-violence, which emphasizes the importance of respecting the body's limitations and avoiding injury or harm. This principle is reflected in the emphasis on proper alignment and awareness of the body's sensations during each asana. Hatha Yoga is also a non-competitive practice, and each individual is encouraged to practice at their own pace and level of ability.

 

In conclusion, Hatha Yoga is a versatile and accessible form of yoga that offers numerous physical and mental health benefits. Its emphasis on physical postures, breathing techniques, and meditation make it a well-rounded practice that can be adapted to suit a variety of needs and abilities. Whether you are looking to improve your overall health and wellness, reduce stress and anxiety, or simply increase your flexibility and strength, Hatha Yoga can be an effective tool for achieving your goals.

 

Vinyasa Yoga

Vinyasa Yoga is a dynamic and flowing form of yoga that emphasizes movement and breath synchronization. Vinyasa Yoga is often referred to as "flow" yoga, as it involves a continuous flow of movement from one posture to the next, with each movement synchronized with an inhale or an exhale. Vinyasa Yoga is a popular style of yoga, and its origins can be traced back to the teachings of T. Krishnamacharya and his students, including Pattabhi Jois and B.K.S. Iyengar.

 

The practice of Vinyasa Yoga typically begins with a series of Sun Salutations, or Surya Namaskar, which involve a series of dynamic movements that are synchronized with the breath. Sun Salutations are a great way to warm up the body and prepare for the more challenging postures that follow. From there, practitioners move through a sequence of standing, seated, and balancing postures, each linked together by a continuous flow of movement and breath.

 

One of the defining characteristics of Vinyasa Yoga is the use of the breath to guide movement. The breath is seen as the life force, or prana, that flows through the body, and is used to generate heat, detoxify the body, and calm the mind. Each movement in Vinyasa Yoga is synchronized with an inhale or an exhale, creating a sense of fluidity and ease in the practice.

 

Vinyasa Yoga is a physically challenging form of yoga, and can be adapted to suit practitioners of all levels and abilities. The continuous flow of movement and breath can help build strength, stamina, and flexibility, while also improving balance and coordination. In addition, the mindfulness and focus required in Vinyasa Yoga can help reduce stress and anxiety, improve concentration and focus, and promote a sense of calm and relaxation.

 

While Vinyasa Yoga is often associated with a fast-paced, intense practice, it can also be adapted to suit a more gentle or restorative approach. Restorative Vinyasa Yoga, for example, may involve slower, more deliberate movements, and a greater emphasis on relaxation and mindfulness. This flexibility and adaptability make Vinyasa Yoga a versatile and accessible form of yoga for practitioners of all levels and abilities.

 

In conclusion, Vinyasa Yoga is a dynamic and flowing form of yoga that emphasizes movement and breath synchronization. Its origins can be traced back to the teachings of T. Krishnamacharya and his students, and it has become a popular style of yoga around the world. The use of the breath to guide movement, along with the continuous flow of postures, creates a sense of fluidity and ease in the practice. Vinyasa Yoga is a physically challenging form of yoga that can be adapted to suit practitioners of all levels and abilities, and offers numerous physical and mental health benefits. Whether you are looking to build strength and flexibility, reduce stress and anxiety, or simply enjoy a more dynamic and flowing practice, Vinyasa Yoga is a great option to explore.

 

Ashtanga Yoga

Ashtanga Yoga is a style of yoga that is characterized by a specific sequence of postures, or asanas, that are performed in a specific order. The practice of Ashtanga Yoga is based on the teachings of Sri K. Pattabhi Jois, who developed the sequence of postures in the 1940s in Mysore, India. The practice is physically challenging and requires a high level of discipline and commitment.

 

The Ashtanga Yoga sequence is comprised of six series of postures, each with a different level of difficulty. The primary series, also known as Yoga Chikitsa, is the first and most important series, and is designed to purify the body and prepare it for deeper practice. The second series, called Nadi Shodhana, is more challenging and focuses on purifying the nervous system. The remaining four series, called Sthira Bhaga, are even more advanced and are intended for experienced practitioners.

 

In Ashtanga Yoga, each posture is performed with a specific breath count and movement, creating a flowing and dynamic practice. The practice is typically done in a set sequence, with each posture building upon the previous one. The practice can be physically demanding, and often involves holding postures for several breaths while maintaining a steady gaze and focus.

 

Ashtanga Yoga is often referred to as a "moving meditation," as it requires a deep level of concentration and focus. The practice of Ashtanga Yoga can help to build strength, flexibility, and endurance, while also promoting a sense of inner peace and calm. The practice can also be used as a tool for self-discovery and personal growth, as it requires a high level of self-discipline and commitment.

 

One of the key principles of Ashtanga Yoga is the concept of "vinyasa," which refers to the synchronization of breath and movement. Each movement is linked to an inhale or an exhale, creating a sense of fluidity and ease in the practice. The focus on the breath can help to calm the mind and reduce stress and anxiety.

 

Ashtanga Yoga is traditionally taught in a Mysore-style format, where students practice at their own pace and receive individual instruction and adjustments from the teacher. This allows for a more personalized and tailored practice, and allows students to progress at their own pace.

 

In conclusion, Ashtanga Yoga is a dynamic and challenging style of yoga that is characterized by a specific sequence of postures performed in a specific order. The practice is based on the teachings of Sri K. Pattabhi Jois, and is designed to purify the body, mind, and spirit. The focus on breath and movement creates a sense of fluidity and ease in the practice, while the practice itself can help to build strength, flexibility, and endurance. The practice of Ashtanga Yoga requires a high level of discipline and commitment, but can be a powerful tool for self-discovery and personal growth. Whether you are an experienced practitioner or just starting out, Ashtanga Yoga is a great option to explore.

 

Bikram Yoga

Bikram Yoga, also known as Hot Yoga, is a style of yoga that is practiced in a room heated to approximately 105°F with a humidity of 40%. The practice was created by Bikram Choudhury in the 1970s and consists of a sequence of 26 postures and two breathing exercises that are performed in a specific order.

 

The high temperature and humidity of the room in which Bikram Yoga is practiced is intended to help the body stretch and release toxins, allowing for a deeper and more effective practice. The postures in the Bikram Yoga sequence are designed to work every muscle, tendon, ligament, and joint in the body, providing a full-body workout.

 

One of the key benefits of Bikram Yoga is its ability to help practitioners build strength, flexibility, and endurance. The practice is physically challenging and requires a high level of focus and concentration. The high temperature and humidity of the room can also help to increase circulation and reduce stress, promoting a sense of relaxation and calm.

 

In addition to its physical benefits, Bikram Yoga can also be used as a tool for mental and emotional healing. The practice requires a high level of discipline and commitment, which can help to develop self-control and self-awareness. The focus on breath and movement can also help to quiet the mind and reduce anxiety and stress.

 

Bikram Yoga is typically taught in a 90-minute class, with each class following the same sequence of postures and breathing exercises. The postures are performed twice, with a short break in between, allowing for deeper stretches and greater release of tension. The practice is intended to be challenging, but is also accessible to practitioners of all levels, as modifications can be made to accommodate different abilities and limitations.

 

One of the controversies surrounding Bikram Yoga is the behavior of its founder, Bikram Choudhury. Choudhury has been accused of sexual assault and harassment by multiple women, and his behavior has led to many practitioners and studios distancing themselves from his teachings. However, many practitioners continue to practice Bikram Yoga and believe in its benefits, while also working to create a safe and inclusive practice space for all.

 

In conclusion, Bikram Yoga is a style of yoga that is practiced in a heated room and consists of a specific sequence of 26 postures and two breathing exercises. The high temperature and humidity of the room can help to increase flexibility, circulation, and relaxation, while also promoting physical strength and endurance. The practice requires discipline and commitment, and can also be used as a tool for mental and emotional healing. While Bikram Yoga has been the subject of controversy due to the behavior of its founder, many practitioners continue to find value in the practice and work to create a safe and inclusive practice space.

 

Iyengar Yoga

Iyengar Yoga is a style of yoga that emphasizes precise alignment, props, and sequencing to create a safe and effective practice. It was developed by B.K.S. Iyengar, who is widely considered one of the foremost yoga teachers in the world.

 

Iyengar Yoga is known for its use of props, such as blocks, straps, and blankets, to help students achieve proper alignment and deepen their practice. The use of props allows for students of all levels and abilities to access the benefits of yoga, as it provides support and stability while also allowing for a deeper stretch.

 

One of the key principles of Iyengar Yoga is precision. Students are taught to focus on the details of each posture, including the alignment of the feet, hands, and body. This attention to detail helps to prevent injury and ensures that the benefits of each posture are maximized.

 

Another important aspect of Iyengar Yoga is sequencing. Classes are carefully designed to build upon each other, with each posture preparing the body for the next. This creates a safe and effective practice that helps students to progress at their own pace.

 

In addition to its physical benefits, Iyengar Yoga is also known for its ability to promote mental and emotional well-being. The focus on precise alignment and breath awareness helps to quiet the mind and reduce stress and anxiety. The use of props and modifications also allows for a greater sense of ease and relaxation in the body.

 

Iyengar Yoga is typically taught in a studio setting, with a trained and certified teacher guiding students through the practice. Classes may be focused on specific areas of the body, such as the back or hips, or may be designed for specific populations, such as beginners or seniors.

 

One of the unique aspects of Iyengar Yoga is its emphasis on individualized instruction. Teachers are trained to assess each student's needs and provide modifications and adjustments as needed to ensure that they are practicing safely and effectively. This individualized approach helps to make Iyengar Yoga accessible to people of all ages and abilities.

 

B.K.S. Iyengar passed away in 2014, but his teachings continue to influence the practice of yoga around the world. The Iyengar Yoga certification process is rigorous, and teachers must undergo extensive training and practice in order to become certified. This commitment to high standards and attention to detail is a hallmark of the Iyengar Yoga tradition.

 

In conclusion, Iyengar Yoga is a style of yoga that emphasizes precise alignment, props, and sequencing to create a safe and effective practice. The use of props and modifications makes the practice accessible to people of all levels and abilities, while the focus on breath and alignment promotes physical, mental, and emotional well-being. The individualized approach to instruction and high standards of certification make Iyengar Yoga a respected and influential tradition within the world of yoga.

 

Kundalini Yoga

Kundalini Yoga is a style of yoga that focuses on the awakening of Kundalini energy, which is believed to be a primal energy that lies at the base of the spine. The practice of Kundalini Yoga involves a combination of physical postures, breathwork, meditation, and chanting, all of which are designed to help awaken and channel this energy.

 

The practice of Kundalini Yoga dates back to ancient India and was traditionally taught in secret to only a select few. It wasn't until the 20th century that Kundalini Yoga was brought to the West by Yogi Bhajan, who founded the 3HO organization (Healthy, Happy, Holy Organization) and began teaching Kundalini Yoga to the public.

 

Kundalini Yoga is often described as a powerful and transformative practice that can help individuals access their full potential and achieve greater levels of consciousness. The practice is designed to help individuals release physical and emotional blocks, tap into their inner power, and connect with their higher selves.

 

One of the key aspects of Kundalini Yoga is the use of specific breathwork techniques, known as pranayama, which are designed to activate the Kundalini energy. The practice also includes a series of physical postures, known as kriyas, which are designed to work on specific areas of the body and help prepare the body for the awakening of the Kundalini energy.

 

In addition to physical postures and breathwork, Kundalini Yoga also includes meditation and chanting. Mantras, which are repetitive sounds or phrases, are often used in Kundalini Yoga to help focus the mind and activate the energy centers of the body.

 

The practice of Kundalini Yoga is often described as intense and challenging, as it involves a high level of energy and focus. However, many practitioners report experiencing a sense of calm, clarity, and inner peace after their practice.

 

Kundalini Yoga is often practiced in a group setting, with a trained and certified teacher leading the class. However, it can also be practiced individually, using books or online resources as a guide.

 

There are many benefits associated with the practice of Kundalini Yoga. In addition to the physical benefits of improved strength, flexibility, and balance, the practice is also believed to help reduce stress and anxiety, improve concentration and focus, and promote a sense of overall well-being.

 

It's important to note that the practice of Kundalini Yoga should be approached with caution and under the guidance of a trained teacher. The awakening of Kundalini energy can be a powerful and transformative experience, but it can also be overwhelming if not approached with care and respect.

 

In conclusion, Kundalini Yoga is a style of yoga that focuses on the awakening of Kundalini energy through a combination of physical postures, breathwork, meditation, and chanting. The practice is designed to help individuals release physical and emotional blocks, tap into their inner power, and connect with their higher selves. While the practice can be intense and challenging, many practitioners report experiencing a sense of calm, clarity, and inner peace after their practice. It's important to approach the practice with caution and under the guidance of a trained teacher to ensure a safe and transformative experience.

 

Yin Yoga

Yin Yoga is a slow-paced style of yoga that involves holding seated or lying down postures for an extended period of time, typically between 3 and 5 minutes, with the intention of targeting the deeper connective tissues of the body. It is a meditative practice that emphasizes stillness, breath awareness, and mindfulness.

 

Yin Yoga is based on the principles of Traditional Chinese Medicine and the concept of Qi, or vital energy, flowing through the body along pathways known as meridians. The practice is designed to stimulate the flow of Qi, release physical and emotional tension, and promote overall balance and harmony.

 

Yin Yoga postures are typically passive and gentle, with a focus on relaxing the muscles and allowing the body to slowly sink deeper into the pose with the help of gravity. Props such as blankets, bolsters, and blocks may be used to support the body and deepen the stretch.

 

The practice of Yin Yoga is often described as a complement to more active, dynamic styles of yoga and exercise, as it helps to balance and release tension in the deeper, often neglected tissues of the body. It is also a helpful practice for individuals who sit for long periods of time, as it helps to counteract the effects of prolonged sitting on the body.

 

In addition to its physical benefits, Yin Yoga is also known for its mental and emotional benefits. The practice encourages stillness and introspection, helping to calm the mind, reduce stress and anxiety, and promote a sense of inner peace and well-being.

 

Yin Yoga is often taught in a quiet, meditative setting with soft lighting and soothing music. The teacher may offer guided meditation or visualization practices to help students relax and connect with their breath and body.

 

It is important to approach Yin Yoga with caution and respect for the body's limits. The long-held postures can be challenging, and it is important to listen to the body and modify the poses as needed to prevent injury. It is also important to work with a qualified teacher who can offer guidance and support in the practice.

 

In conclusion, Yin Yoga is a slow-paced style of yoga that involves holding seated or lying down postures for an extended period of time with the intention of targeting the deeper connective tissues of the body. It is a meditative practice that emphasizes stillness, breath awareness, and mindfulness. The practice is based on the principles of Traditional Chinese Medicine and is designed to stimulate the flow of Qi, release physical and emotional tension, and promote overall balance and harmony. Yin Yoga is a helpful complement to more active styles of yoga and exercise and offers both physical and mental benefits. It is important to approach the practice with caution and respect for the body's limits and work with a qualified teacher to ensure a safe and effective practice.

 

Restorative Yoga

Restorative Yoga is a gentle and nurturing style of yoga that focuses on relaxation and rejuvenation. It involves holding passive poses for an extended period of time with the support of props such as blankets, bolsters, and blocks, allowing the body to fully relax and release tension.

 

The practice of Restorative Yoga is rooted in the concept of relaxation response, which is the body's natural ability to heal and restore itself when in a state of deep relaxation. Restorative Yoga aims to activate this response by promoting relaxation, reducing stress and tension, and restoring the body to its natural state of balance.

 

Restorative Yoga is an ideal practice for individuals who are recovering from injury, illness, or stress, or for those who are looking for a gentle and therapeutic practice. It is also a helpful practice for individuals who struggle with sleep, as it can promote relaxation and improve the quality of sleep.

 

The practice of Restorative Yoga typically involves holding poses for 5 to 10 minutes or longer, allowing the body to fully relax and release tension. The poses are gentle and passive, with a focus on deepening the breath and letting go of physical and mental tension.

 

Props such as blankets, bolsters, and blocks are used to support the body and deepen the relaxation response. For example, a supported Child's Pose, where the torso is supported by a bolster and the forehead rests on a block, can be deeply relaxing and restorative for the body.

 

Restorative Yoga is often taught in a quiet and peaceful setting with soft lighting and soothing music. The teacher may offer gentle guidance and encouragement to help students release tension and fully relax into each pose.

 

In addition to its physical benefits, Restorative Yoga is also known for its mental and emotional benefits. The practice encourages stillness and introspection, helping to calm the mind, reduce stress and anxiety, and promote a sense of inner peace and well-being.

 

It is important to approach Restorative Yoga with caution and respect for the body's limits. While the poses are gentle, they can still be challenging, and it is important to listen to the body and modify the poses as needed to prevent injury. It is also important to work with a qualified teacher who can offer guidance and support in the practice.

 

In conclusion, Restorative Yoga is a gentle and nurturing style of yoga that focuses on relaxation and rejuvenation. The practice involves holding passive poses for an extended period of time with the support of props, allowing the body to fully relax and release tension. Restorative Yoga is an ideal practice for individuals who are recovering from injury, illness, or stress, or for those who are looking for a gentle and therapeutic practice. The practice promotes relaxation, reduces stress and tension, and restores the body to its natural state of balance. It is important to approach the practice with caution and respect for the body's limits and work with a qualified teacher to ensure a safe and effective practice.

 

Power Yoga

Power Yoga is a style of yoga that combines the physical postures (asanas) of traditional yoga with a dynamic and energetic approach. It is often characterized by its emphasis on strength, flexibility, and endurance, making it a popular style among fitness enthusiasts and athletes.

 

Power Yoga is a relatively new style of yoga, developed in the 1990s in the United States as a response to the growing interest in yoga as a fitness practice. It draws inspiration from Ashtanga Yoga, a traditional style of yoga that emphasizes a series of flowing postures linked with breath (vinyasa). However, Power Yoga is more flexible in terms of the sequence of poses, allowing for greater variety and creativity in the practice.

 

One of the key principles of Power Yoga is its focus on building strength and stamina. The practice often includes challenging poses such as arm balances, inversions, and deep backbends, requiring a significant amount of physical effort and endurance. This emphasis on strength and stamina has made Power Yoga a popular style among athletes, as it can help to improve performance and prevent injury.

 

Another important aspect of Power Yoga is its emphasis on the breath. The practice encourages deep, rhythmic breathing, which can help to calm the mind, reduce stress, and improve overall well-being. The breath is often used to help transition between poses and to deepen the intensity of the practice.

 

Power Yoga is typically taught in a heated room, with temperatures ranging from 80 to 95 degrees Fahrenheit. The heat is believed to help increase flexibility, reduce the risk of injury, and aid in the detoxification process. However, it is important to approach the practice with caution, especially for individuals with pre-existing medical conditions or those who are pregnant.

 

Despite its physical intensity, Power Yoga is often taught in a supportive and non-judgmental environment. Teachers may offer modifications and variations of poses to accommodate different levels of experience and ability. The practice also emphasizes the importance of listening to the body and respecting its limits, making it accessible to a wide range of individuals.

 

In addition to its physical benefits, Power Yoga is also known for its mental and emotional benefits. The practice can help to reduce stress and anxiety, improve concentration and focus, and promote a sense of inner peace and well-being. It can also help to improve self-confidence and self-awareness, encouraging individuals to take control of their health and well-being.

 

In conclusion, Power Yoga is a dynamic and energetic style of yoga that combines the physical postures of traditional yoga with a focus on strength, flexibility, and endurance. The practice emphasizes the breath, the importance of listening to the body, and is often taught in a supportive and non-judgmental environment. It is popular among fitness enthusiasts and athletes, as it can help to improve performance and prevent injury. However, it is important to approach the practice with caution, especially in a heated room, and to work with a qualified teacher who can offer guidance and support.

 

Jivamukti Yoga

Jivamukti Yoga is a modern style of yoga that was developed in the United States in the 1980s by Sharon Gannon and David Life. It is an approach to yoga that combines physical practice with spiritual teachings and emphasizes the connection between yoga and activism.

 

The word "Jivamukti" means "liberation while living," and the practice is designed to help individuals achieve freedom from the cycle of birth, death, and rebirth (samsara) while still living in the modern world. It is a holistic approach to yoga that incorporates physical practice, meditation, ethical principles, and the study of yogic philosophy.

 

The physical practice of Jivamukti Yoga is a dynamic and vigorous vinyasa-style practice that emphasizes the integration of movement, breath, and meditation. The practice is often accompanied by music and is designed to challenge the practitioner physically and mentally, while also promoting a sense of relaxation and inner peace.

 

Jivamukti Yoga also places a strong emphasis on ethical principles, including ahimsa (non-harming), bhakti (devotion), dhyana (meditation), and karma (action). The practice encourages individuals to live their lives in accordance with these principles, both on and off the mat, and to use their practice as a means of promoting positive change in the world.

 

Another unique aspect of Jivamukti Yoga is its incorporation of spiritual teachings and philosophy. The practice draws inspiration from the ancient texts of yoga, including the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali and the Bhagavad Gita, and encourages practitioners to explore the deeper spiritual dimensions of yoga.

 

In addition to its physical and spiritual components, Jivamukti Yoga also emphasizes the connection between yoga and activism. The founders of the practice believe that yoga is a tool for social and environmental change, and encourage practitioners to use their practice as a means of promoting positive change in the world.

 

Jivamukti Yoga classes are typically taught in a studio setting and are led by certified Jivamukti Yoga teachers. The classes may include chanting, meditation, and physical practice, and may be accompanied by live music. Jivamukti Yoga also offers retreats, workshops, and teacher training programs for those who wish to deepen their practice or become certified teachers.

 

In conclusion, Jivamukti Yoga is a modern style of yoga that combines physical practice with spiritual teachings and emphasizes the connection between yoga and activism. The practice is designed to help individuals achieve freedom while still living in the modern world, and incorporates physical practice, meditation, ethical principles, and the study of yogic philosophy. It places a strong emphasis on living one's life in accordance with ethical principles and using yoga as a means of promoting positive change in the world. Jivamukti Yoga classes are typically led by certified teachers in a studio setting and may include chanting, meditation, and physical practice.