Popular Types of Yoga

Now that we've covered the basics of yoga, let's delve a little deeper. Since yoga is such an old practice, different styles have evolved over time. All the information below is taken from the source listed.

Hatha

Hatha yoga is usually recommended for beginners because it is gentle and slow. Each pose is held for a longer amount of time and Hatha classes are usually very focused on technique and breathing.

Vinyasa

Vinyasa, or flow, yoga aligns breathing with motion. A Vinyasa class will typically begin with a series called the Sun Salutation series before moving on to more intense poses. The key feature of a Vinyasa class is that it is constant motion (flowing). A class may include a flow sequence (or several) that is repeated.

Ashtanga

Ashtanga, or its western counterpart, power yoga, is an intense form of yoga. Ashtanga classes perform a set series of poses in the same order every time. Power yoga is similar, but does not limit itself to the set poses.

Iyengar

Iyengar focuses on alignment in each pose and utilizes props, such as blankets, blocks, and straps, to assist the body with alignment. Poses are held for longer periods of time rather than flowing from one pose to the next.

Hot Yoga

Hot yoga was first created by Bikram Choudhury but has since been used by many other studios. Hot yoga takes place in a room heated to 90 - 100 degrees Fahrenheit and at a set humidity level. Bikram studios use the same 26 poses done twice in each class, but other hot yoga studios may differ.

Which is right for me?

Depending on your goals within your yoga practice, you might prefer a more physically demanding practice, like Ashtanga, power, or hot yoga. If you are searching for inner peace and flexibility, a slower type of yoga, like Hatha, Vinyasa, or Iyengar might suit you more. Don't forget to do more research -- you might find a less popular style, like laughter yoga or even nude yoga, that you prefer.

References

Pizer, Ann. (2012, May 20). Yoga Style Guide. About.com. Retrieved from  http://yoga.about.com/od/typesofyoga/a/yogatypes.htm.