Quick Guide to 10 Yoga Styles

Don't know what style of yoga to check out? Here's a quick guide to some of the major yoga styles available. 1. Hatha 

• Good for all levels.
• Gentle stretching and basic arm balances.
• Classical approach to yoga poses and breathing exercises.
• Won't necessarily leave you sweating, but it will have you feeling more relaxed and supple.

   2. Ashtanga

• Rigorous, hot, sweaty.
• Physically demanding.
• Great for athletes or seasoned yogis.
• Follows specific sequence every time and links every movement to a breath.

3. Bikram

• Follows the same sequence of 26 poses (repeated twice) in a 105 degree room.
• Highly popular; classes can be found in most places.

4. Hot Yoga

• Comprised of many different poses that vary per class.
• Room is heated to 80-100 degrees.

5. Iyengar

• Focus is on proper alignment.
• Expect a lot of props.
• Best for those who have injuries as the teachers undergo comprehensive training and are very knowledgable about what kind of instruction you may need.

6. Anusara

• Seeks to use yoga to help students open their hearts.
• Classes are lighthearted and fun.
• Vinyasa-flow and alignment work.
• Rigorous for body and mind.

 7. Restorative

• Use props for passive poses for that one may experience the benefits of pose without the effort.
• Has been said to be more restorative and relaxing than a nap.
• Classes are usually found on the weekends.

8. Vinyasa/Power

• Fluid-like movements and links every movement to a breath.
• Intensive.
• Expect some kind of lively music.
• No two vinyasa classes are the same.

9. Kundalini

• Good for those looking for a heavier emphasis on spirituality.
• Focus is more on breathing and chanting.
• Poses are constantly moving and invigorating.

10. Yin

• Focus is on lengthening tissues.
• Complements other forms of yoga.
• Passive poses you relax into.
• Classes tend to be long.