Don't stretch yourself

At a glance

Classic yoga is a holistic traditional yogic path that includes disciplines, personal observance, breathing, body postures and meditation. It emphasizes the link between breath, body and mind, as well as the detachment of the inner world from the outer world.

Hatha yoga is traditionally the preparatory stage for higher meditation, and is based on asana and breathing techniques. Hatha yoga became popular in the second half of 20th century, but many people focus more on its physical aspects rather than the meditation.

Hot yoga refers to yoga exercises performed under hot and humid conditions. Some people believe hot yoga can replicate the heat and humidity of India where yoga originated, and the heat can help increase a yogi's flexibility and energy flow in body poses.

Prenatal yoga, much like other types of childbirth-preparation classes, is very popular nowadays. The exercise is believed to benefit both the expectant mothers and their babies. It is said to be able to encourage stretching, mental centering and focused breathing, so as to improve sleep, reduce anxiety and pain, and help with labor and delivery. But experts caution that pregnant women should take a light to moderate approach to exercise and they should always check with their doctors first.

Baby yoga is yoga for mothers and babies. Generally, baby yoga is intended for babies old enough to hold their heads up. Advocates claim that when mothers do yoga with newborns, they bond better, and the babies will experience increased physical and emotional development. Baby yoga can also help mothers keep fit. But mothers must be very careful they do not make their babies do dramatic and unnatural movements.