Hatha in Its Many Forms

Look carefully and you’ll find many top teachers throughout the Southland leading asanas in a number of different settings-gyms, spas, studios, even the workplace.

Not surprisingly, Los Angeles, home of the fit and the alternative, is among the country’s top yoga meccas, along with San Francisco, Minneapolis, Chicago and New York, says Yoga Alliance’s Rama Berch.

But beware, the area also attracts its share of fakes and wannabes. So before you pop into a yoga class, know what you’re getting into.

In America, the type of yoga most widely practiced is called Hatha yoga. This is the most physical type and uses postures, or asanas, as the way to healthy enlightenment.

But Hatha has hundreds of forms. Here are some of the popular ones:

Ashtanga. Physically demanding, this form of yoga requires and develops strength, flexibility and stamina. Great for those who want to sweat, Ashtanga combines breathing with a series of movements done in quick succession. Power yoga and vinyasa flow are both derivatives of Ashtanga yoga. All three are popular in L.A.

Bikram. Also known as hot yoga, this is done in a room heated to nearly 100 degrees, so joints are warm and movement is theoretically easier. Focus is on a repeated set of asanas.

Iyengar. The focus is on alignment. This is a safer form of yoga and therapeutic in design. Good for beginners. Instructors often use straps or pillows to help participants into postures.

Kripalu. A gentler therapeutic form of yoga that focuses on reacquainting the mind and body. Students hold poses while meditating.

Kundalini. Good for beginners, involves stretching and breathing, coordinating with breathing and meditation.

Viniyoga. Usually taught one-on-one and tailored to the individual. The asanas and breath are equally important as students work at their own pace to integrate movement with breathing and gain awareness.