Yoga: basics

In short: Yoga combines postures (asanas), breathing exercises and relaxation. It improves flexibility, strength and calm and is well suited to beginners.

In more detail: Yoga comes from India. In Western classes the physical part is usually the focus, such as Hatha yoga with slow, held postures.

In detail

• Styles: Hatha (calm), Vinyasa (flowing), Yin (passive, long holds), Ashtanga (dynamic).
• Basic postures: Mountain, downward dog, warrior, child, cat-cow.
• Breathing: Even breathing through the nose, linking movement with breath.
• Equipment: Non-slip mat, comfortable clothing. Blocks and a strap help.
• Caution: Do not push into pain; with injuries and pregnancy choose adapted classes.
• Effect: Can reduce stress and ease back complaints (stress-abbauen-und-entspannen, dehnen-und-beweglichkeit).