There are several yoga traditions, all of which combine breathing, posture and exercise. The physical postures, called asanas, are isometric moves that tone and stretch muscles, using your body's own weight as resistance. Each yoga tradition employs the asanas but has a different emphasis. Iyengar yoga zeroes in on the body's alignment by strictly adhering to the correct postures. Ashtanga, also called power yoga, is a more demanding cardiovascular workout that involves quickly flowing from one posture to the next.
Hatha yoga is a blend of traditions.
An Australian actor, F.M. Alexander, developed this exercise method a century ago to solve his own vocal problem. Through extensive experiment and self-observation, he discovered that the relationship of the head, neck and spine is crucial in determining quality of movement and function. When the neck muscles don't overwork, the head balances lightly, the spine naturally lengthens and the body's internal support system revives. Private sessions can help you relearn positions for sitting, standing, walking, bending and reaching as well as refine activities pertinent to your life, such as working at your computer, carrying a baby or luggage, or playing sports. Lotte Berk Method.