Anusara Yoga is a modern school of yoga started by John Friend in 1997; it is a popular hatha yoga style with a Tantric philosophy. Friend continues to take an active role leading the expansion of the school and training (and certifying) teachers.

The emphasis of the school is on a set of "Universal Principles of Alignment" which underlie all postures, "heart opening" postures and the spiritual/meditative benefits of hatha yoga.

Attainable bliss and joy in practice and everyday life are an important aspect of the underlying philosophy of this school. Many western students with a modernist bent find this school attractive.

It's upbeat, optimistic, entrepreneurial, systematic, and do-it-yourself-friendly, and...It's spiritual but not dogmatic.