On International Yoga Day, 6 Strange Types Of Yoga You Never Knew Existed

Today is International Yoga Day 2018 and images of people contorting on a workout mat is the first thing that comes to mind. Because that's all there is to yoga, right? A few twists, a downward dog, some deep breathing in a quiet room. But not everyone may think so. Through the years, a few strange types of yoga have emerged and today is the right day to tell you about 6 of those weird yoga trends.

1. Hot Yoga

As if sweating it out on a mat wasn't enough, hot yoga goes one step further. Started by Bikram Choudhury in the 70s, the form consists of yoga being done in a closed room with high temperatures that reach 40 degrees Celsius. This is said to encourage sweating and promote detoxification although it hasn't been proven yet.

2. Beer Yoga

A name that combines alcohol and exercise is an antithesis. Beer Yoga actually involves the use of a beer bottle in yogic poses that can balance it steadily on the body. If done properly, no guesses to what the reward is.

3. Mommy And Baby Yoga

Another unusual form of yoga is one that moms can do with their tiny kids. This one is mainly to work the mom's muscles as she holds, twists and turns with her baby firmly carried or strapped to her.

4. Aerial Yoga

If you assumed all kinds of yoga takes place on firm ground, you're sorely mistaken. Aerial yoga, also known as anti-gravity yoga, is carried out in mid-air when participants are strapped from the ceiling in silk wraps for overall flexibility.

5. Equestrian Yoga

As if dogs and goats being involved in yogic poses wasn't enough, there's also equestrian yoga that's carried out with a horse. It is done when sitting horseback and targets the core, shoulders and hips for higher strength in the areas and a deeper connection with the horse. Yes, really.

6. Karaoke Yoga

Far from your quiet room with chants and meditation, karaoke yoga encourages participants to sing together as a group while bending into shape. Definitely a most casual type of yoga, this one encourages one to have a great time while getting in shape.