The benefits of yoga have been proven to improve lives physically, mentally, emotionally, and even spiritually. However, there are various different forms and practices of yoga, and finding out more about what will work for you is the first step in starting your practice.
If you’ve already read one of our previous blog posts, Is Yoga For You?, then you know that yoga truly is for everyone. Whether you’re looking for help with mobility, strength, and/or balance, there is a practice for everyone. We’ve broken down a few different styles of yoga to help you on your exploration of yoga.
Restorative Yoga
Restorative yoga uses blankets, blocks, bolsters, and other props to support the body in a series of gentle poses including twists, forward folds, and backbends. Pranayama, controlled breathing, is often used in conjunction to assist the physical pose. Finding physical comfort & ease in Restorative yoga poses aids in supporting your parasympathetic nervous system, helping to relieve stress and tension, and even promoting weight loss. Attending a restorative yoga class is a great way to start a yoga practice as it typically only involves 5-6 poses throughout the class. Restorative yoga can also help with rehab on the body or any mobility issues.
Yin Yoga
Yin yoga is a slow-paced style of yoga that incorporates the principles of Traditional Chinese Medicine. Similar to restorative yoga, the poses are held for a longer period of time while controlled breathing can be used to support relaxation in the poses. In Yin yoga, however, there is a focus on finding passive end range of motion (“the edge” as we say in Yin) and to relax into that stretch in order to stimulate the meridians of the body, increasing circulation in the joints, and promoting flexibility. Yin yoga is a great starting practice for beginners and those working on flexibility.
Hatha Yoga
Hatha yoga is an encompassing style of yoga that includes an active physical practice (asana), meditation, breath-work (pranayama), and relaxation focused on bringing overall balance: physically, emotionally, mentally, and for some, spiritually. Physical poses can be held for a few breaths in an effort to connect with body awareness of alignment and engagement. Props are often used to assist postures, to make a pose more accessible or more challenging, to change the pose, or to offer alternative feedback. Great for all levels looking to improve their practice.
Vinyasa Yoga
Vinyasa yoga, or flow, is a faster-paced, active style of physical (asana) practice that includes repeating many of the poses throughout the practice with an emphasis on increasing body heat and building strength. Flow through poses in this dance-like sequence for a complete body workout and mindfulness session.
Power Yoga
Power yoga is a challenging, vigorous, strength-based yoga practice with roots based in Ashtanga yoga. Incorporating both vinyasa or flow poses, both are held longer to aid in strengthening muscles while increasing mobility & stamina. Power yoga is preferred by athletes, but not recommended for beginners.
Aerial Yoga
Aerial yoga is a style of yoga utilizing silk hammocks hanging from the ceiling as your prop. This suspension-based practice can be great for people suffering from chronic pain and for those with difficulties getting up and down from the ground. An energetic and playful practice, perfect for adults and children of all levels.
Aqua Yoga
Aqua yoga is a practice that consists of a series of yoga poses practiced in the water. This aquatic yoga practice builds strength while improving balance by using water as support and resistance. Gentle yet challenging, this yoga practice is great for all ages and all levels.
Choose one or two classes to try and find your preferred practice. Our teachers provide a warm, friendly environment to learn and practice as well as mats, blocks, blankets, and bolsters to use. Don’t have time to go to a class? We have classes online too! Check out our OnDemand classes so you can practice on your own time wherever you are. Want a more hands on approach to your health and wellness? We’re here to help! Don’t forget to check our Instagram everyday in February for 29 ways you can practice self-care.