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What is Yoga?
 Yoga means union (from the root Sanskrit verb: yug ~ to join). Yoga is an ancient Indian philosophy that teaches the union of mind, body and soul. While there are many systems of yoga, Hatha Yoga – the yoga of effort - is a physical discipline that focuses on postures or asanas. By working with asanas and pranayama (breath control), body and mind are balanced and united. It is this harmonious and balanced state of being that is referred to as yoga-a place where the mind and senses are calm and the body and spirit are purified and cleansed. Currently, the term “hatha yoga” signifies an approach to practice that integrates several interpretations and styles.
At Focus Fitness of the Main Line, we embrace many yoga styles including Anusara, Ashtanga, Hot, Kripalu, Power, Pranakiya and Yin. Our instructors have a special gift to offer that is uniquely theirs. We honor their expertise and experience.
What is Anusara Yoga?
Anusara (a-nu-sar-a), means “flowing with Grace”, “going with the flow”,and “following your heart.” Anusara Founder, John Friend, combines internal Tantric philosophy with external alignment principles. Students of all abilities & levels are welcomed and accepted. Emphasis is placed on individuality and creativity, whilst appreciation is given to beauty, truth and divinity. Attention is paid to attitude, alignment and action. As with many forms of Yoga, Anusara practice is suitable for practitioners seeking to alleviate pain, stress, emotional blockages, and lack of purpose.
What is Ashtanga Yoga?
Ashtanga (ash-tang-a) is the system of Yoga taught by Sri K. Pattabhi Jois at the Ashtanga Yoga research institute in Mysore, India. This method of Yoga involves synchronizing the breath with progressive series of postures - a process producing intense internal heat and a profuse, purifying sweat that detoxifies muscles and organs. The result is improved circulation, a light and strong body, and a calm mind.
What is Hot Yoga?
Hot Yoga, developed only in the 1960s, has already proven a beneficial and popular variation on the ancient art. Hot yoga is based on the Bikram Yoga method after its originator, Bikram Choudhury. It consists of a sequence postures designed to promote flexibility and build heat in the body while cleansing and ridding the body of toxins. This style of yoga is typically performed in a room heated to around 100 degrees Fahrenheit.
What is Kripalu Yoga?
Kripalu Yoga puts great emphasis on the mechanics of yoga—proper breath and alignment—as well as on the inner, spiritual dimensions of yoga practice. Students are encouraged to honor "the wisdom of the body" and to work according to the limits of their individual flexibility and strength. There are three stages in Kripalu yoga. Stage one focuses on learning the postures and exploring your body's abilities. Stage two involves holding the postures for an extended time, developing concentration and inner awareness. Stage three is called "Meditation in Motion," in which movement from one posture to another arises unconsciously and spontaneously. Kripalu yoga was developed by Yogi Amrit Desai, who was inspired by his guru, Swami Kripalvanandaji, a Kundalini Yoga master from India.
 What is Power Yoga?
Power yoga is a general term used in the West to describe a vigorous, fitness-based approach to vinyasa-style yoga. Most power yoga is closely modeled on the Ashtanga style of practice. The term "power yoga" came into common usage in the mid 1990s, when several yoga teachers were looking for a way to make Ashtanga yoga more accessible to western students. Unlike Ashtanga, power yoga does not follow a set series of poses. Therefore, any power yoga class can vary widely from the next. What they have in common is an emphasis on strength and flexibility.
What is Pranakriya Yoga?
Pranakriya Yoga is an approach to Hatha Yoga based on the Tantric teachings of Swami Kripalu, an ascetic monk who practiced yoga ten hours each day for over 30 years. Through his practices he gained a thorough understanding of all aspects of yoga. His teachings have been adapted for western students as Pranakriya Yoga, developed by Yoganand Michael Carroll.
What is Vinyasa Yoga?
Vinyasa yoga focuses on integrating breath and movement, awareness and alignment, strength and flexibility, and your practice with your daily life. Vinyasa yoga originates from the yogic teachings of Sri T. Krisnamarchya.
What is Yin Yoga?
Yin yoga is a form of yoga which is performed to stretch the connective tissues of the body. Primary connective tissues include the hips, thighs and lower spine areas. These types of tissues do not stretch the muscles, but they stretch and exercise the bone and joints areas of the body. Yin yoga concentrates on keeping the joints mobile. The practice is quiet and passive; it has a quality of stillness. Yin yoga is a beneficial practice to all. |
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