Yoga is a form of Eastern exercise and meditation that goes back thousands of years. Like other forms of yoga, Ananda yoga uses movement and breath work to bring peace and strength to the mind and the body. It is a kind of Hatha yoga that focuses on yoga postures, breathing techniques, and meditation. One of the main differences between Ananda and other forms of yoga is that it incorporates affirmations during practice.
Ananda yoga was founded in the 1960s by Swami Kriyananda, a disciple of Paramhansa Yogananda, who is credited with having popularized yoga in the West. Kriyananda claims that in 1949 he was able to perform Hatha poses that he was previously incapable of achieving. This “miracle” marked the beginning of his path to creating his yoga practice.
While Ananda shares many characteristics with other types of gentle yoga, two main things set it apart. Ananda practitioners are taught affirmations that they silently say to themselves along with each pose. For example, during vrikasana, or tree pose, students affirm, “I am calm, I am poised.” This is thought to engage the mind and make the practice more thoughtful. There are also 39 Energization Exercises that are unique to Ananda yoga and are supposed to aid the life-force.
A gentle yoga, Ananda does not place great emphasis on the aerobic aspect. While there are still physical fitness and other health benefits, most practitioners of Ananda do not approach it as a fitness program. This makes it an excellent beginning yoga style, with the postures becoming more challenging, depending on personal ability.
One offshoot of Ananda yoga is Ananda yoga therapy. Similar to physical therapy, this yoga therapy targets physical ailments and discomforts. But unlike traditional therapy, this kind of yoga therapy works to harmonize the mind and improve the flow of energy.
Ananda yoga, like yoga of any kind, has been shown to have positive health benefits. These include increased flexibility, stress reduction, relaxation, physical strength, and improved posture. Other benefits include improved circulation and immune systems as well.
Most major cities have Ananda studios. Teacher training commonly is available for advanced students as well. Popular options also include yoga retreats that combine yoga with a vacation. As with yoga in general, Ananda yoga has seen an increase in popularity over the past few decades. While still not as well known as Vinyasa and other types of yoga, Ananda yoga has a devoted and growing group of followers around the world.