A Beginners Guide to the Different Styles of Yoga

There are so many different types of yoga out there, whether you want a more physically demanding class or an easy, relaxing, meditative class. With each style a bit different from the others, you'll find variations depending on the teacher. Below I explore some of the most popular styles of yoga, so you have an idea of the differences and similarities of each. Enjoy!

HATHA YOGA

Hatha yoga is a generic term that refers to any type of yoga that teaches physical postures. Nearly every type of yoga class taught in the West is Hatha yoga. When a class is marketed as Hatha, it generally means that you will get a gentle introduction to the most basic yoga postures. You probably won't work up a sweat in a hatha yoga class, but you should end up leaving class feeling longer, looser, and more relaxed.

ASTHANGA YOGA

Ashtanga is based on ancient yoga teachings and it is translated as "Eight Limb path." Asthanga was popularized and brought to the West by K. Pattabhi Jois in the 1970s. It's a rigorous style of yoga that follows a specific sequence of postures. Ashtanga starts with five sun salutation A's and five sun salutation B's and then moves into a series of standing and floor postures. It is similar to vinyasa yoga, as each style links every movement to a breath. The difference is that Ashtanga always performs the exact same poses in the exact same order. This is a sweaty, physically demanding practice, so make sure to bring your trusty yoga mat towel.

VINYASA YOGA

Vinyasa is a Sanskrit word for a phrase that roughly translates as "to place in a special way," referring—in hatha yoga—to a sequence of poses. Vinyasa classes are known for their fluid, movement-intensive practices. Vinyasa teachers sequence their classes to smoothly transition from pose to pose, with the intention of linking breath to movement, and often play music to keep things lively. The intensity of the practice is similar to Ashtanga, but no two vinyasa classes are the same. If you hate routine and love to test your physical limits, vinyasa may be just your ticket.

IYENGAR YOGA

Iyengar yoga was developed and popularized by B.K.S. Iyengar. Iyengar is a very meticulous style of yoga, with utmost attention paid to finding the proper alignment in a pose. In order to help each student find the proper alignment, an Iyengar studio will stock a wide array of yoga props — blocks, blankets, straps, chairs and bolsters are all common. There isn't a lot of jumping around in Iyengar classes, so you won't get your heart rate up, but you'll be amazed to discover how physically and mentally challenging it is to stay put. Iyengar teachers must undergo a comprehensive training — if you have an injury or chronic condition, Iyengar is probably your best choice to ensure you get the knowledgeable instruction you need.

KUNDALINI YOGA

Kundalini yoga practice is equal parts spiritual and physical. This style is all about releasing the kundalini energy in your body said to be trapped, or coiled, in the lower spine. These classes really work your core and breathing with fast-moving, invigorating postures and breath exercises. These classes are pretty intense and can involve chanting, mantra, and meditation.

YIN YOGA

Yin yoga is a practice developed by teacher Paul Grilley to stretch the body's connective tissue, particularly around the joints. It is a slow-paced style of yoga with seated postures that are held for longer periods of time. Yin is a great class for beginners, as postures can be held from 45 seconds to two minutes. Yin can also be a meditative yoga practice that helps you find inner peace and acts as a counterpoint to movement-oriented vigorous yang styles of yoga.. The classes are relaxed, as you're supposed to let gravity do most of the work.

RESTORATIVE YOGA

Restorative yoga focuses on winding down after a long day and relaxing your mind. At its core, this style focuses on body relaxation. You spend more time in fewer postures throughout the class. Many of the poses are modified to be easier and more relaxing. Like Iyengar, many props are used and are placed just right such as blankets, bolsters, and eye pillows. All of the props are there to help you sink deeper into relaxation. Restorative yoga also helps to cleanse and free your mind.

BRIKHAM/HOT YOGA

Hot yoga was pioneered by Bikram Choudhury, whose name became synonymous with yoga classes taught in a room heated to around 41 degrees centigrade, with a humidity of 40%, intended to replicate the climate of India.. The heat facilitates the loosening of tight muscles and profuse sweating, which is thought to be cleansing. Like Ashtanga, a Bikram class always follows the same sequence, although a Bikram sequence is different from an ashtanga sequence. The Brikram method is a set series of 26 poses, but not all hot classes make use of this series. Don't forget to bring a water bottle!