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We are excited to share one of our fave stories from Shape here on FitSugar. Hatha Yoga Origin: Introduced in 15th-century India by Hindu sage, Yogi Swatmarama, Hatha poses — Downward Facing Dog, Cobra, Eagle, and Wheel, for example — make up most yoga sequences practiced today. Philosophy: The goal of Hatha yoga is to bridge the body and mind with the breath in a series of physical poses Read more
When I walked into my first few yoga classes, I was intrigued by all the blocks neatly stacked against the wall next to the perfectly rolled-up mats. I soon came to realize that those different sized blocks had many useful purposes. Blocks are often used by beginners and those with injuries to help them modify certain postures, but they are also used by experienced and flexible yogis as tools to Read more
Deciding to try out a yoga class is really exciting, but it can also be confusing since there are so many different types. Here's a brief explanation of some popular kinds of yoga: Ashtanga - Hot, fast-paced, same series of poses every 1 1/2 hour class. This style is great for runners, bikers, or anyone looking to really move and strengthen your entire body. Jivamukti - Physically challenging Read more
Trying to slim down and wondering if yoga is the answer? In order to lose weight, you need to burn calories, and like anything physical, doing yoga can help you achieve that goal, but it depends on what style of yoga you do. You want to choose vigorous vinyasa, power, or ashtanga classes rather than slower-paced styles such as kripalu or iyengar. These classes move quickly so they really get your Read more
Yoga offers numerous health benefits, but there are some rumors about this ancient practice that need a little debunking. While it's obvious that regular Down Dogs won't cause instant enlightenment or help you live to 150, we'd like to dispel some persistent yoga myths before you step on your mat. Hot Yoga Helps You Lose Weight Certain types of yoga like Bikram and ashtanga are practiced in a Read more
We've known for a while that exercise is a great way to combat stress and increase endorphins levels, but a new study says that the effects of yoga are even more profound when it comes to mental health. In a small study, practicing yoga produced higher levels of "mood improvement" in participants than other types of exercise. Researchers say it's because yoga seems to increase levels of GABA, a Read more
Rock stars aren't typically the picture of health, but then again, Alanis Morissette isn't like most rockers. At age 37, she's made a lot of choices toward a more healthy lifestyle. The Canadian star has followed a vegan diet to help prevent cancer, completed a marathon to raise awareness about eating disorders, and now she's using yoga to rejuvenate and re-energize. Way back in 1995, a young Read more
Summertime heat means practicing yoga in an extremely hot and humid room that can make breathing unbearable — especially when the guy next to you forgot his deodorant. Who can focus on their drishti when sweat is pooling in their eyes? If you're not used to practicing in super high temps, you'll need to take some precautions to get through the 60- to 90-minute class without passing out. First, Read more
