Different yoga types

[tvillemom]

Last year I bought a beginner Ashtanga yoga DVD. I really like it, but would like to add more poses for flexibility. This one seems to focus on strength. I don't want to do yoga practice as a religion....I've heard great things about Bikram, but I think you have to have 100 degree room for that??? What's a good alternative for someone looking to tone, strengthen, and become MORE FLEXIBLE, BUT for someone who is NOT flexible NOW?? I have a hard time doing poses that magazines list, because I'm NOT already flexible and able to do the pose!???? I really want to continue and learn more ......
Wendi

[Raw Mom]

You can try Kripalu yoga or Yin yoga or Anusara yoga.....Anything that is gentle to moderate. Sometimes it's called Hatha yoga. Make sure the teacher walks around to adjust and align. If you want dvd versions, all of the above offer them. Have fun.

[Apasaraw]

Anusara is great for teaching form and flexibility in a positive light. I am not a yogi, I am a pilates gal, but I attended an Anusara class with a friend (she's a yoga instructor) and really liked the energy and the way good form is taught in such an easy peasy way that works! imho it would add to anyone's practice no matter what school of Hatha Yoga you do.

Iyengar is great for people who are not flexible as they use props and such to really support ease your body into new poses as it is ready. Have you tried it?

I'll stick to Pilates. :)

[RawVee]

Last year I bought a beginner Ashtanga yoga DVD. I really like it, but would like to add more poses for flexibility. This one seems to focus on strength. I don't want to do yoga practice as a religion....I've heard great things about Bikram, but I think you have to have 100 degree room for that??? What's a good alternative for someone looking to tone, strengthen, and become MORE FLEXIBLE, BUT for someone who is NOT flexible NOW?? I have a hard time doing poses that magazines list, because I'm NOT already flexible and able to do the pose!???? I really want to continue and learn more ......
Wendi


Tvillemom;

I used to teach beginner's Vinyasa yoga. That's just a gentle flow from pose to pose. If you must use tapes, try some of Rodney Yee's beginner DVDs--they're excellent. But try, too, to take a class. There is no substitute for having a teacher there to assist you and ensure that you don't injure yourself. :)

[tvillemom]

I was at Walmart, and bought a "Yoga for Beginners" DVD from Gaiam. The teacher is Patricia Walden. I am watching it first, and I must say, it is very thorough on teaching the proper pose form! I really like it, even though it is slower than I really WANTED, I think it is just what I NEEDED. Thanks for the suggestions....I will continue to practice and search for other forms to keep me challenged!
Thanks,
Wendi