Yoga

Lotus Yoga Position

You may think that yoga is just another fitness craze that will fade faster than a pair of Levi's but did you know that people have been practicing yoga for over 5,000 years? Developed in India, yoga is the perfect activity for peeps looking to tone their body, help them excel at other sports, improve their concentration and find inner peace - all at once!

The Benefits of Yoga

Yoga is a great physical activity, no matter what your exercise goal or level of athleticism. If you're looking to shed pounds and tone muscles, a faster paced yoga class will help you do it. Yoga's also great for relieving tension and stress from your mind and body while helping to alleviate allergies, headaches, insomnia and depression. "When you're facing a challenge, are feeling depressed or stressed out from school, yoga provides you with an oasis and allows you to draw from your inner strength," says Maalaa Lazar, a yoga instructor at The Yoga Tree studio in Vancouver, Canada.

Types of Yoga You Can Try

If you're looking to feel the burn, you'll probably want to head to an Ashtanga or Power Yoga class. Both of these types of yoga are faster paced and will have your blood pumping a lot quicker than other classes. If relaxation, stretching and toning interests you more, you'll probably want to try a Hatha yoga class. If there are yoga classes specifically for teens in your area, you may want to start your yoga training by taking those classes. Check out your local community center for affordable teen yoga classes as well. Maalaa says a great way to bring yoga into your life is to start your very own class with a group of friends.

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