July 18, 2023
Yoga is so versatile- there is a benefit to anyone and everyone. There are many different types of yoga styles, each with its own unique focus and benefits. So how do you figure out which type of yoga is right for you? Choosing the right yoga style for your needs and your body will lead to an enriching practice. The perfect match can enhance your overall well-being and enjoyment in yoga.
Here are a few factors you should consider when choosing a yoga style:
- What is your fitness level like?
- Some yoga styles are more physically demanding than others. If you are new to yoga then you may want to start with a gentler style such as hatha or yin yoga. If you are fairly active and fit, you may consider vinyasa or ashtanga yoga.
- What are your goals?
- Consider what you want yoga to do for you. Are you looking to improve your flexibility, strength, or balance? Are you looking for a more spiritual and meditative practice? Choosing a style of yoga that fits your goals will help you see results.
- What is your personality like?
- It sounds silly, but it’s important to consider. Are you a fast-paced person, or are you more relaxed in nature? If you prefer to take things slow, ashtanga yoga may not feel like a right fit for you. Choose a style of yoga that fits your needs and your personality.
Let’s dive into the different types of yoga and find a style that is right for you!
Yoga Style Types
Hatha Yoga
Hatha is suitable for practitioners at all levels! It involved meditation, breath control, and physical postures. The aim of Hatha Yoga is to improve physical health, increase flexibility, and develop mental clarity and focus. It originates from India, specifically the Hatha Yoga Pradapika published in the 15th century.
Vinyasa Yoga
Vinyasa is a physically demanding style of yoga. It involves moving through a series of poses in a continuous manner while linking to an inhale or exhale. It’s fantastic for those wanting something fast paced and can be incredibly variable. It combines strength and flexibility practices.
Ashtanga Yoga
Ashtanga is a traditional style of yoga. This style was popularized by Sri K. Pattabhi Jois. It is a physically demanding style of yoga that involves a set series of poses that are always performed in the same order. There are challenging poses, focal points for the gaze, and breath control. Ashtanga yoga promotes mental focus, self-discipline, and inner exploration.
Iyengar Yoga
Iyengar Yoga was developed in the 20th century. It involves the use of props and holding poses. It is often used to address various physical conditions and ailments. There is a strong focus on proper body alignment in each pose to ensure accuracy and safety. It helps develop strength, flexibility, and mindfulness. I really like this beginner set of yoga tools on Amazon!
Bikram Yoga
Bikram yoga is a style of hot yoga that has a specific set of 26 postures and two breathing exercises. The room is usually heated at 105°F with high humidity. Bikram yoga has had some controversy in the past, so you may find it labelled as something like “Hot 26” instead by practitioners trying to distance themselves from the original name. This can be a physically demanding style of yoga, so ensure to listen to your body and stay hydrated.
Kundalini Yoga
Kundalini Yoga aims to awaken and activate dormant spiritual energy that resides at the base of the spine. There are physical postures, dynamic breathing techniques, chanting, meditation, and spiritual philosophy involved. Kundalini can be a deeply transformative practice. It is typically led by trained teachers who can guide others.
Restorative Yoga
Restorative Yoga is a gentle and relaxing form of yoga. It promotes rest and rejuvination via supportive props and meditation. Restorative Yoga is ideal for those recovering from injuries, as well as those dealing with chronic stress, fatigue or illness.
Yin Yoga
Yin Yoga is slow paced and meditative. It focuses on passive poses and targeting connective tissues of the body rather than muscles. There is stillness, floor based poses, and modest use of props. Yin Yoga is influenced by Chinese medicine. The poses are designed to stimulate and release energy flow along the body’s meridian lines. This style of yoga is suitable for beginners and experts alike.
Power Yoga
Power Yoga is dynamic and challenging. It draws inspiration from Ashtanga, but does not follow a fixed sequence of poses. Power Yoga is intense and more fitness-oriented than other forms of yoga. It encourages strength and endurance. The continuous flow of Power Yoga is also ideal for a cardiovascular workout. There are typically modifications and variations provided to accommodate.
Hot Yoga
Hot Yoga is a style of yoga practiced in a heated room at around 95°F to 105°F. There can be various forms of hot yoga, including hot vinyasa yoga, hot power yoga, and more. It’s essential to be vigilant of your body needs and hydration levels during hot yoga. I recommend consulting with a healthcare provider before attempting hot yoga, as well.
Additional Tips for Choosing the Right Yoga Style
You may decide Kundalini Yoga is the right style for you, but you should know that teachers practice and teach it differently. If you find you are not a fan of a particular class, try a different one to see if you vibe with the instructor better!
Your instructors are there to help you! Reach out to teachers and see what advice they have to give you. They can help you identify where you need work as well as offer suggestions and accommodations for your yoga practice.
Some classes can run a long time- I’ve seen some go for 90 minutes! You should look at how often you can dedicate to going per week, as well as how long of a class is suitable for you. Take into account your fitness level and personal life schedule.
Some forms of yoga may recommend a visit with your doctor first, such as hot yoga. It is always important to consult with your healthcare provider prior to starting yoga to make sure it is safe for you and your body.
Results take time, no matter what it is. Stay as consistent as you are able to. Be patient when waiting for results- they may not come right away!
Conclusion
There are so many different types of yoga available that you can easily find a form that fits you as you are. The style of yoga you choose should fit your fitness level, your goals, and your personality. Remember to try different classes, be patient, and consult your doctor to discover what is right for you. Yoga is so beneficial for the body and emotional wellbeing that you can’t really go wrong with it.
Embrace the exploration process: It’s a journey, not a race. Find a yoga practice that nourishes your individual and unique mind, body and soul. Let me know in the comments what your favorite style of yoga is, I’d love to hear from you!
Wishing you all the best,
Moonlit Grimoire
Hey! Want Some Inside Information?
If you’d like some printables, guides, recommendations and more, just sign up for my emails below and get started!
Want to Read more?
5 Witchcraft Hacks to Enhance your Beautiful Practice
Ready to tap into the amazing power that’s inside you? Get ready for a fantastic journey as we share five…
Choosing the Right Yoga Style: Important Factors and Tips
Yoga is so versatile- there is a benefit to anyone and everyone. There are many different types of yoga styles,…
What You Need to Know About Paganism
Paganism: Not Just for Witches Paganism is a broad term that encompasses a wide variety of religious beliefs and practices….
