Yoga has long been regarded as a vehicle for reducing stress. It’s all about uniting or attaching your mind, body and spirit together to reach a more tranquil state of being. And in our high-speed living, that can be a good thing . . . a very good thing.

The benefits are many—from increased core strength, flexibility and sleep quality to reduced blood pressure (good for the heart), cholesterol/triglyceride levels, cortisol levels, stress, muscle tension and back pain (per research). Your whole body gets a workout because the yoga stretches go deep, impacting ligaments and tendons. Studies show that just eight weeks of yoga improved flexibility by 35%.

The deep breathing used in yoga also can improve lung capacity and stimulate your relaxation response, critical for your recovery from a stress-related cortisol spike.

Bottom line, the yoga philosophy is to change the construction of your body from the inside out. How that is done depends on the type of yoga you do. The differences mainly lie in pace and timing.

Hatha. Using basic yoga postures, simple breathing techniques and body gestures, Hatha yoga glides through stretching. The goal is to rid obstacles and gain endurance, bringing health and energy to your body. This style is used to “flush away” toxins in your glands and organs, nourishing every cell.

Bikram. Often practiced under a Bikram yoga teacher, this “hot yoga” system centers on 26 postures, two breathing exercises and a 105-degree room with 40% humidity. Why the heat? It warms muscles, helps prevent injuries, boosts sweating to flush toxins and allows you to work deeper. Classes typically run 90 minutes.

Ashtanga. This eight-limb approach consists of movements for external cleansing and internal cleansing, using synchronized breathing and movements. Ashtanga followers say the asanas (body positions) improve blood circulation,which relieves joint pain and removes toxins. Ultimately, the body is healthy, light and strong . . . the quintessential focus of Ashtanga.

Vinyasa. Offering much diversity, this yoga style casts a wide net, unlike other types. There are no set sequences, no rules and no mandate for a “certified” teacher. Breathing-synchronized movement creates the flow of Vinyasa yoga. Teachers and their styles vary, so you may experience a slow-moving class or a faster-paced one.

Power yoga. New kid on the block, power yoga first made the scene about

15 years ago. It has a great appeal to Westerners because its focus is a vigorous workout—not chanting and meditation. There are no set sequence of poses. Instead, strength, flexibility and varied intensity are key.