Choose a Yoga Class That Fits Your Personality


Updated 07/28/10 12:27 PM · Posted by FitSugar · 12 comments

Types of Yoga Explained

When I tell people I teach yoga, I hear things like, "I always wanted to take yoga but it's way too hot," or, "I could never do yoga because it's way too slow." The thing is, there are so many different types of yoga that whatever your personality, one style will be right for you. If you've always wanted to try a yoga class, check out the chart below to see which kind of class you should Read more

Class Act: Kripalu Yoga


Updated 08/13/07 3:18 PM · Posted by FitSugar · 5 comments

Class Act:  Kripalu Yoga

Looking to try Yoga? Not sure what kind of yoga is best for beginners? I recommend you try Kripalu Yoga; it is a great place to start because these classes tend to involve slow and gentle movements. This approach makes Kripalu suitable for people working with injuries. In this style of yoga, poses are sometimes held longer than in other yoga classes, which is helpful if you are trying to Read more

Yoga Props Explained: Blocks


Updated 08/05/09 3:27 PM · Posted by FitSugar · 3 comments

Yoga Props Explained: Blocks

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

Yoga: What's With the Om?


Updated 08/13/07 3:40 PM · Posted by FitSugar · 6 comments

Yoga:  What's With the Om?

I've been to many different yoga classes, from Kripalu to Ashtanga to Jivamukti, and they all have something in common. At the end the teacher always leads the class in chanting "Ommmm." Om, actually pronounced "Aum," is an affirmation of the Divine Presence that is the universe and is similar to the Hebrew "Amen." In the Hindu belief, Om is the sound that was made when the whole universe was Read more

Kinds of Yoga


Updated 10/18/07 8:56 AM · Posted by FitSugar · 3 comments

Kinds of Yoga

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

Will Yoga Help Me Lose Weight?


Updated 11/20/11 11:27 PM · Posted by · 11 comments

Will Yoga Help Me Lose Weight?

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

Common Yoga Myths Busted


Updated 10/27/11 8:39 AM · Posted by · 3 comments

Common Yoga Myths

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

Tips For Surviving Sweaty Summer Yoga Classes


Updated 07/14/11 10:40 AM · Posted by · 2 comments

Tips For Enduring Hot Yoga Class

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