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Yoga meditation is particularly effective because it involves physical movement, whereas spiritual meditation practitioners remain completely still. Yoga is great for beginners who wish to learn to focus on breathing, energy flow and stretching, thereby freeing the mind from the constant barrage of thoughts that flutter around. Yoga is set up so that everyone — whether you’re six or sixty — can participate. Methods of meditation may vary, so it’s important that you try a few different styles and find one you like before giving up on the practice after your first lesson.
Iyengar Yoga Meditation (as developed by Yogi B.K.S. Iyengar) uses a number of props to help individuals reach certain body positions (asanas) and alignments. Students of varying levels can use wooden blocks to raise the floor level or cotton straps to assist in stretching. Many students find the Iyengar meditation methods effective for treating sports injuries or improving flexibility. Your teacher will pay close attention to your precise posing and will help you correct any imperfections so you can achieve the maximum benefit. Iyengar Yoga is best for new students who like the hands-on assistance and learning all the poses.
Sivananda Yoga Meditation blends asanas with a five-point philosophy into all classes. Participants will begin with breathing exercises, followed by posing exercises, followed by deep relaxation meditation and positive affirmations. Diet will be another topic explored in this holistic approach to meditation. Newcomers really like Sivananda because the poses are easy to learn and are familiar. The chanting, meditation and positive nature are enjoyable parts of this type of meditation.
Most yoga meditation occurs in a group setting, with 10-20 other students and a trained teacher. Often times, incense is lit and light music plays in the background. If you’re new to how meditation works and how yoga works, then you may want to purchase a book that shows you the various poses so you don’t feel lost in the class. Some meditation styles — like Iyengar, Kundalini and Sivananda — move at a slower pace, which is helpful for beginners; whereas, Bikram Yoga and Ashtanga Yoga are more intense for people who are generally drawn toward more active workouts.
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