There are many different styles of Yoga; some are more physically demanding, while others are more relaxing and meditative.
If you've ever looked at a yoga studio's timetable and had no idea which style would be best for you - then keep reading to understand the basics and benefits of these 7 different types of yoga!
Hatha Yoga
Hatha Yoga is the most popular and general type of yoga and is offered in most gyms.
This is a gentle yoga that primarily focuses on static poses and is perfect for beginners! During a hatha class, you will be taught yoga basics, including body awareness, breathing, and meditation.
Vinyasa Yoga
Also known as vinyasa flow yoga, vinyasa yoga is a moving meditation that focuses on exploring the relationship between mind, body, and breath. It's more dynamic and poses tend to 'flow' into one another, making it a great way to get a cardio workout without going for a run!
Vinyasa yoga is primarily suitable for adults of all ages looking for a challenge! You should be familiar with yoga poses and how to do them and have a good fitness level. If you're looking to get some cardio and strength training in, then vinyasa is the style for you!
Ashtanga Yoga
Ashtanga is a dynamic style of yoga that combines set sequences or series of postures where the breath is linked with each movement. There are six levels of sequences or series in this yoga style, including Primary Series, Secondary Series, and four levels of Advanced Series.
Although one of the most challenging, ashtanga yoga is still suitable for all age groups and fitness levels. However, as a beginner, you would start with the Primary Series and advance once you have memorised and perfected this sequence!
Yin Yoga
This is a slow-paced, meditative style of yoga that includes seated postures that are held for much longer periods of time.
Yin yoga strengthens and lengthens the muscles you rarely use, while at the same time teaching you how to breathe through discomfort and sit with your thoughts, helping you find inner peace and harmony.
This is the yoga of choice for people looking to slow down; it is also fantastic for people dealing with injuries or chronic conditions, or those interested in practising meditation.
Iyengar Yoga
This is the most widely practised method around the globe!
Iyengar yoga is renowned for its focus on precision, alignment, sequencing, timing and the use of props. It centres around the details of your breath control and posture.
It is suitable for all ages and fitness abilities, and great for anyone interested in gaining detailed knowledge about correct alignments.
Restorative Yoga
As the name suggests, restorative yoga restores the parasympathetic nervous system function of the body, helping it to heal and restoring balance.
In restorative yoga you will change position less often, as it involves completely relaxing into a pose while focusing on your breath, allowing you to release tension in your muscles.
Restorative yoga is a favourite with anybody needing to de-stress, those dealing with pain, or finding it hard to wind down and relax.
Bikram Yoga
Also known as hot yoga, bikram yoga is usually conducted in a warm room intended to replicate the climate of India. Technically a form of hatha yoga, bikram involves a series of 26 set poses.
It can be a tough workout, and combined with the heat, does carry risks for those with cardiovascular issues, high blood pressure, or those who are more susceptible to dehydration or heat stroke.
As with any exercise - the idea is to find the one that you enjoy, for maximum benefits!
