Expert from The University of Texas MD Anderson explains benefits of yoga and styles for all fitness levels

Yoga is a beneficial exercise for both the body and the mind, and a regular practice can help people maintain a healthy weight and an active lifestyle, two traits known to help prevent cancer.

Some styles of yoga include postures and movements that may get your heart pumping, said Alejandro Chaoul, Ph.D., assistant professor in MD Andersons Integrative Medicine Program. And if your heart rate goes up for an extended period of time, you can count it as exercise. In addition, yoga is a mind-body practice that guides the body through a series of breathing exercises. These activities can help relieve stress and improve your overall health.

Other health benefits of yoga include increased flexibility, improved circulation, improved mood, increased balance and better sleep. There are many different styles of yoga to choose from based on fitness level and goals. Hatha yoga is a popular style that follows well-known methods for doing certain postures and breathing. It can either be very gentle or intense, depending on how its being practiced. Below is a list of other styles of yoga.

1. Ashtanga or Power Yoga is a more athletic style of yoga. Its fast pace gets the heart rate up and helps the participant lose weight.

2. Kundalini Yoga has a strong focus on meditation. It promotes proper breathing and chanting. While it may not increase the participants heart rate, this type of yoga can improve mental clarity and flexibility.

3. Bikram Yoga is also known as hot yoga. It strengthens the body through a series of physically challenging positions in a 105-degree room with 40 percent humidity. This exercise makes the participant sweat and relaxes his or her muscles for a deeper stretch and workout.

4. Tibetan Yoga focuses on controlled breathing, simple movements and meditation. This type of yoga can improve sleep, lessen fatigue and reduce stress.

No one style of yoga is best, Chaoul said. Its more important that you find a class and type that works for you.

To learn more about the MD Anderson Regional Care Center in the Bay Area, visit http://www.mdanderson.org/bayarea.

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Yoga: Build a strong body and mind