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Power Yoga is the latest buzzword in town, creating many ripples. What is Power Yoga. Simply put, Power Yoga is the western version of the Indian Ashtanga Yoga. Ashtanga Yoga puts emphasis on physical flexibility and strength. As the name states, Power Yoga is all about power and strength through rigorous body workouts and mental stability and concentration through self-discipline.
Sri K. Pattabhi Jois, a renowned Sanskrit scholar first presented the concept of Power Yoga to the west through his Ashtanga Yoga style and philosophies. Apart from borrowing from Ashtanga Yoga, Power Yoga also takes certain aspects from other yoga types such as Bikram Yoga and Iyengar Yoga. From Bikram Yoga, Power Yoga takes the concept of execution of basic yoga poses in an energetic workout and offers challenges to the beginners. From Iyengar Yoga, it takes the aspect of proper execution of the poses and improving the flexibility and endurance of the person.
Sun salutation pose is the backbone of Power Yoga. It is executed by performing a number of yoga poses while synchronizing breathing patterns to each movement, or Vinyasa. It helps to achieve perfect unity and grace. A person who does not follow or practice yoga may find the movement soft and free flowing. However, in the perspective of a Power Yogi, the process is similar to hard exercising, scrambling and contorting every limb to its limit while maintaining a strong sense of inner peace and concentration to pull off each move flawlessly and gracefully.
Power Yoga also helps to bolster strength, stamina and flexibility. It assists a person in maintaining proper posture. It starts as a great launch pad for training of athletes. It is a marvelous way to remove toxins from the body and helps to realize spirituality and mysticism.
A follower of Power Yoga needs to fulfill certain requirements in order to fully enjoy and benefit from it. Many enthusiasts are still loyal to the practice. In fact, it is becoming an increasingly attractive form of yoga and is drawing a large number of followers.
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