Hatha yoga

Encyclopedia of Alternative Medicine, Apr 06, 2001 by Douglas Dupler

Those just beginning hatha yoga programs often report fatigue and soreness throughout the body, as yoga stretches and exercises muscles and tendons which are often long-neglected. Some yogic breathing and meditation techniques can be difficult for beginners and can cause dizziness or disorientation; these are best performed under the guidance of a teacher.

At this time, there are no generally accepted standards for yoga teacher certification in America, unlike in Europe and England, where yoga schools have been standardized. Some schools in America require teachers to study for many years, while some will grant beginning certificates in a much shorter time. When choosing teachers, students should search for qualities they may require, such as understanding, patience, knowledge of certain medical conditions, carefulness, and attention to individual details.

Yoga classes cost around 10 dollars per session. Many communities, schools, and health organizations offer discounted or free yoga classes as part of health awareness programs. Yoga can be reimbursed by insurance when it is part of physical therapy.

• Feuerstein, Georg. Yoga for Dummies New York: IDG Books, 1999.
• Bodian, Stephan, and Feuerstein, Georg. Living Yoga New York: Putnam, 1993.
• Christensen, Alice. 20 Minute Yoga Workouts New York: Fawcett, 1995.
• Iyengar, B.K.S. Light on Yoga. New York: Schocken, 1975.

• Yoga Journal P.O. Box 469088, Escondido, CA 92046. http://www.yogajournal.com.
• Yoga International Magazine R.R. 1 Box 407, Honesdale, PA 18431. http://www.yimag.com.

• International Association of Yoga Therapists (IAYT), 4150 Tivoli Ave., Los Angeles, CA 90066.