When people in the west think of yoga it is the poses, spiritualism, and breathing exercise of hatha yoga which comes to their mind.

However, yoga is an intricate system of practices, beliefs and lore based on the ancient writings of the Vedic culture. Yoga practitioners have shared their vast knowledge of this combination of exercise and spiritualism with their students for thousands of years. These teachings include:

1) Hatha Yoga: the physical side of yoga including proper breathing
2) Raja Yoga: trancendetal knowledge
3) Astanga Yoga: the eight-fold path
4) Karma Yoga: service
5) Dhyanya Yoga: meditation on the absolute

There exist many different styles of yoga, however all of these are based on the Vedas and share common ideas and basic tenets.

Thus it makes no difference if you go for Iyengar, Kundali, Astanga, or any of the other various styles of yoga, you are in fact practicing hatha yoga, a series of asanas (postures) done together with breathing execises. And of course all styles share the same goals of improving your health by improving flexibilty, strength and muscle tone, along with losing body fat. All together greater health in general.

Hatha yoga first started making inroads the into western world in the 1940's and has experienced several surges in popularity since, especially during the 1960's and again in the 90's and on to the present.

In fact hatha yoga is more accepted and embraced by society in general than ever before. People of all ages, races and socio-economic backgrounds are using yoga to attain a more healthy lifestyle. You can see the full spectrum of society, students, doctors, brick-layers, all practicing their yoga positions in diverse locations as well, parks, beaches, community centers or yoga studios. And there are specialized classes, books and videos available teaching yoga for golfers, tennis players, and even for improved love-making (blush).

Does yoga peak your interest. There are many options open to you. You could consider classes with an instructor, purchase a DVD or video, or buy a book, either a physical book, or a downloadable e-book over the internet. All perfectly valid ways to learn hatha yoga.

Hatha yoga is an enjoyable and highly effective form of exercise and although it is physically demanding, the rewards returned are more than worth the effort. Here are a few things to help you get started:

- Choose the right clothing. Be sure your skin can breath and do not over dress, you are going to get hot and prespire. Yoga work-out suits can be purchased from many retailers both over the internet or in your town. Or normal excersise clothing can be chosen as well. Be sure it does not restrict your motion as a full range of motion is vital in all forms of yoga. If you are going to classes, check with the yogi if there are any dress restrictions and if she has any clothing suggestions. And in regards to footwear, yoga is always practiced in bear feet.

- Check with your doctor before you start this or any other form of exercise. And if you have any medical condition, even if your doctor gives you clearance, you should inform your teacher of it. This way they may be able to adapt the workout to you.

- Drink pleanty of water, before, during, and after. Remaining properly hydrated will stop you from cramping up.

- Enjoy yourself. This isn't a competition, you will advance at your own rate.