The six branches are:

• Hatha yoga: This is the physical and mental branch that aims to prime the body and mind.
• Raja yoga: This branch involves meditation and strict adherence to a series of disciplinary steps known as the eight limbs of yoga.
• Karma yoga: This is a path of service that aims to create a future free from negativity and selfishness.
• Bhakti yoga: This aims to establish the path of devotion, a positive way to channel emotions and cultivate acceptance and tolerance.
• Jnana yoga: This branch of yoga is about wisdom, the path of the scholar, and developing the intellect through study.
• Tantra yoga: This is the pathway of ritual, ceremony, or consummation of a relationship.

Comprehensive Yoga Types Guide with Detailed Processes

1. Hatha Yoga

Step-by-Step Process

1. Begin with basic posture alignment
2. Start with breathing awareness
3. Practice fundamental poses:
   • Mountain Pose (Tadasana)
   • Child’s Pose (Balasana)
   • Cat-Cow Stretch
4. Hold each pose for 30-60 seconds
5. Focus on steady, deep breathing
6. End with relaxation (Savasana)

Ideal For

• Beginners
• Those seeking gentle introduction
• Stress relief
• Improving flexibility

2. Vinyasa Yoga

Step-by-Step Flow

1. Start with Sun Salutations
2. Connect breath with movement
3. Transition between poses smoothly
4. Practice sequence:
   • Downward Dog
   • Plank
   • Chaturanga
   • Upward Dog
5. Maintain continuous, rhythmic breathing
6. Cool down with gentle stretches

Benefits

• Builds strength
• Improves cardiovascular fitness
• Enhances flexibility
• Develops body awareness

3. Ashtanga Yoga

Structured Approach

1. Begin with opening mantra
2. Practice Primary Series systematically
3. Follow strict sequence of postures
4. Key components:
   • Breath synchronization
   • Specific dristi (gaze points)
   • Bandha (energy locks)
5. Practice six days a week
6. Consistent, disciplined practice

Characteristics

• Physically demanding
• Builds internal heat
• Detoxifies body
• Increases strength and flexibility

4. Kundalini Yoga

Holistic Process

1. Start with tuning in (chanting)
2. Warm-up exercises
3. Kriya (specific set of exercises)
4. Meditation techniques
5. Breathing exercises
6. Chanting and sound healing
7. Close with relaxation

Focus Areas

• Spiritual awakening
• Energy release
• Emotional healing
• Expanding consciousness

5. Yin Yoga

Slow-Paced Method

1. Choose passive, floor-based poses
2. Hold poses for 3-5 minutes
3. Use props for support
4. Focus on deep tissue stretching
5. Practice mindful breathing
6. Cultivate inner stillness
7. End with extended relaxation

Benefits

• Increases flexibility
• Reduces stress
• Improves joint mobility
• Enhances meditation practice

6. Restorative Yoga

Relaxation Process

1. Use multiple props
2. Create completely supported poses
3. Hold positions for 10-20 minutes
4. Use blankets, bolsters, blocks
5. Focus on complete relaxation
6. Practice deep, slow breathing
7. Cultivate meditative state

Ideal For

• Stress recovery
• Healing
• Deep relaxation
• Emotional balance

7. Power Yoga

Dynamic Approach

1. Warm-up with Sun Salutations
2. Build heat through continuous movement
3. Practice strength-building poses
4. Maintain high-intensity sequence
5. Focus on core engagement
6. Incorporate challenging transitions
7. Cool down with gentle stretches

Benefits

• Builds muscular strength
• Improves cardiovascular fitness
• Enhances body flexibility
• Boosts metabolism

8. Bikram Yoga

Hot Yoga Method

1. Practice in heated room (104°F)
2. Follow 26 specific postures
3. Perform 2 breathing exercises
4. Stay hydrated
5. Wear minimal, moisture-wicking clothing
6. Maintain consistent breathing
7. Cool down gradually

Unique Aspects

• Detoxification
• Increased flexibility
• Cardiovascular conditioning

9. Iyengar Yoga

Alignment-Focused Process

1. Use props extensively
2. Focus on precise body alignment
3. Hold poses for longer duration
4. Break down complex poses
5. Use wall support
6. Modify poses for individual needs
7. Emphasize anatomical precision

Benefits

• Improves posture
• Builds body awareness
• Helps with injury rehabilitation

General Yoga Practice Guidelines

• Start slowly
• Listen to your body
• Breathe consistently
• Stay hydrated
• Practice regularly
• Be patient with yourself
• Seek professional guidance

Safety Tips

• Consult healthcare provider
• Start with beginner classes
• Use proper equipment
• Modify poses as needed
• Avoid comparing yourself to others