Yoga classes are popping up everywhere, from large health club corporations, to local neighborhood studios, to grocery stores, parks, and even in schools ranging from elementary to high. However, the first time you set foot into a yoga studio and ask to see their schedule, you may be bombarded with the different types of yoga styles that are offered. Confused? First of all, don’t be afraid to ask! That’s what the instructors, owners, fellow yogi’s and people at the front desk are there for! But if you want a little extra information before heading out on your own….well, look no further! The main types of yoga that you will see, no matter if you go to a larger corporation or a small studio are:
Anusara Yoga
This style, created by John Friend, emphasizes the heart, and usually incorporates many heart centered meditations and mantras along with a gentle practice. This is a great practice for early mornings and weekends, as it is physical enough to get your body moving, and all of the positivity and inspiration will surely put you in a good mood for the rest of the day!
Power Yoga
Typically offered in health clubs and gyms, this yoga is also commonly referred to as the “American Style Yoga”. Very fast paced and vigorous, with minimal meditation, mantras (if any at all), power yoga concentrates on cardio, exercising the body, and breaking a sweat. While you will practice yoga postures, which will help strengthen and lengthen your body, try this if you are in the mood for a good, heavy sweat, and minimal spiritual aspects.
Iyengar Yoga
Along with the normal 200-500 hour teacher training that yoga teachers must go through, Iyengar teachers have to attend an additional two years of training just in Iyengar. Introduced by B.K.S. Iyengar, this style of Hatha yoga emphasizes alignment and the physical placement of your body and joints in all poses. Many props are used, including blankets, sand bags, straps, and bolsters.
Hatha Yoga
Typically the yoga that we think of when we are in a “traditional” yoga class, Hatha yoga is the most widely used yoga style, and is usually very gentle, and good for beginners. Incorporating many breathing exercises and meditation, it is a relaxing, non-strenuous, form of gentle yoga.
Restorative Yoga
Often called “spa-like” yoga, Restorative yoga involves moving your body into restorative poses utilizing many props, and holding the positions for at least five minutes. This adjusts your body, relaxes it, and is wonderful for a late night yoga class.
Vinyasa Yoga
Vinyasa Yoga, or Ashtanga Yoga as it is also called, is a series of postures that remains the same over time, often split up into four sections and always ending in savasana, or resting pose. This is a main form of yoga in the United States and is very popular, as it incorporates lots of physical movements, deep breathing, relaxation and meditation.
Words By: Alia Barbano-George
Image By: Bobby Ray
