Yoga
There are several styles of hatha yoga practiced in Kerala, many of these have specific characteristics which reflect a particular teacher's approach to asanas; others reflect the characteristics or teachings of a particular organization. Although the basic asanas and breathing exercises remain the same, how they are done, in what order, and where attention is focused while doing them constitute the main differences among the many schools. Regardless of your age or fitness level, you can find a style that will appeal to you and be most appropriate for your particular body or personality type.
Ananda Yoga
This method combines the physical and spiritual. The purpose of Ananda yoga is to clear and energize the system in preparation for meditation. Each posture is viewed as a way to expand, or heighten, self awareness. This process is enhanced through the use of affirmation, a distinctive feature of this system. Another characteristic of this technique is the emphasis it places on deeply relaxing into poses, keeping in mind that hatha yoga is a preparation for meditation.
Ashtanga Yoga
The Ashtanga yoga system is a rigorous practice comparable to the training of an elite athlete. Consisting of 240 postures done in six successive series (vinyasa) linked by the breath, Ashtanga yoga represents the most intensive form of hatha yoga. The purpose of this continual flow of action is to create heat which produces a cleansing or detoxifying effect on the body. Ashtanga places equal emphasis on strength, flexibility and stamina.
Ayurveda
Ayurveda (pronounced eye-yer-vay-duh) is the art of healthy living that enables you to create harmony in daily life by applying self-knowledge and self-care. The word, Ayurveda, is from Sanskrit, and literally means ‘Knowledge of Life’. Inherent in Ayurvedic principles is the concept that you are capable of taking charge of your own life and healing. According to Ayurvedic medicine most people are born in a state of equipoise but quickly loose it, either through bad diet, bad treatment or moving away from the physical location most conducive to their natural constitution and temperament.
Ayurveda evolved around 6000 BC in India. This system of medicine stresses the prevention of body ailments in addition to curing them. Many hotels are equipped with an Ayurvedic centre and you really should take the opportunity to explore this health regime which includes massage, yoga and natural herbal treatments.
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