One of the fastest growing movements in the fitness industry is the wonderful art and practice of yoga. Yoga, in case you've been vacationing on another planet for the past couple years, is sweeping through health clubs and aerobics studios across the country, and is finding increasing acceptance both as a fitness activity and as a means to balance the body's energy, reduce stress and restore calm.

There are many types of yoga. There is Iyanga yoga (fluid and graceful; pose-to-pose; not physically demanding; excellent for beginners and people not as athletically inclined) and Ashtanga yoga (extremely intense; physical; a great activity for fitness, strength and endurance; the mother of "power yoga" classes).

The third type of Hatha yoga is Vini yoga, which is usually performed one-on-one with an instructor. Vini yoga is much more relaxed than either of the other two forms. It is restorative and therapeutic, and is based essentially on the individual's breath; that is, the length or intensity of movement is determined by the individual's capacity to inhale deeply and exhale fully.

According to Molly Fox, one of the most respected yoga teachers in the country, many postural imbalances are caused by restrictions in the breath and vice versa. This style of yoga is based on the premise that the energy in the body is more balanced if the breath is more balanced. By improving breathing, you improve posture, develop a sense of being centered and improve overall energy.