Sarvesh Shashi, trainer to a bevy of Bollywood celebrities, discusses what the different forms of yoga cater to
Shashi has been training Malaika Arora since several years
. Hatha yoga
In my opinion, this is the only ‘actual’ form of yoga. It is where [yoga] originated. In simple words, I’d say this is the one to nine of numbers. Everything after that is a combination of these numbers. Hatha means force, so this form is about building physical techniques that help you [preserve your energy].
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. Iyengar yoga
This has been known to be therapeutic in nature, and helps in dealing with problems of the knees and the back. Practitioners use props that help them get into the asana easily, and it primarily helps them heal from physical injuries.
Dhawan and Janhvi Kapoor practicing aerial yoga at Shashi’s studio. Pics/Instagram
. Ashtanga yoga
This is about [practicing] multiple series [of exercises], and it has multiple kinds of Suryanamaskar. There is a defined pace, and a defined breathing [technique] that is followed, and it involves continuous movement. Ideally, no one talks during the class and [asanas are followed] on counts. This will really test your strength and stamina because you don’t get a break for 90 minutes.
. Yin yoga
This is a restorative practice, [often performed] with pillows to help people sleep better. One stays in a posture for a defined amount of time.
. Sculpt yoga
Practitioners often use dumbells here, and it is usually practiced by athletes. It helps to tone the body very well, and includes a mix of strength and flexibility movements.