Top 10 Yoga Types

When the average person thinks of yoga they either assume yoga is a series of gentle postures or pretzel like poses, only meant for the most flexible 1% of the population. However, there are numerous types of yoga f­rom those that increase energy to those that encourage service to others to the type that turns your body into ripples of muscles. Finding a yoga type that is best suited for you can transform your mind and body in astonishing ways. Here are 10 types of yoga to choose from and the kind of yogi that practices them.

Hatha Yoga: Hatha means an effort of physical energy. Hatha consists of general yoga postures with concentration on the breath and go at one’s own pace. Best for: Beginners; those wanting to start a yoga asana (physical posture) practice. The hatha yogi: Bright-eyed babe

Iyengar Yoga: Developed by B.K.S Iyengar; author and father of modern yoga. Iyengar focuses on proper alignment with attention to small muscle groups that tweak postures for great muscle strength. Iyengar focuses on technique with the use of simple and complex yoga props and equipment. Best for: Anyone wanting to learn proper yoga technique and those wanting to refine their practice. The Iyengar yogi: Yoga Engineer

Vinyasa Yoga: Continuous flowing movements that connect breath to each movement. A single vinyasa consists of 4 sequenced postures that are performed between other postures. Vinyasa yoga is usually an intense practice with faster movements and music to match. Usually practiced in a heated room. Best for: Advanced students, best suited for athletes, dancers, and those wanting to raise their heart rate and weight loss. The vinyasa yogi: one more vinyes’

Kundalini: Focus on mindfulness and spirituality. Postures that focus on back and base of spine; believed in kundalini to be the seat of awakening to ones’ inner self. Kundalini can be an intense practice with core and spine strengthening postures. Chanting with precision breathing are a common part of the practice. Often students wear white in class to invoke divine light. Best for: All levels welcome; seekers of spiritual awakening and introspection. The Kundalini yogi: A beam of light.

Ashtanga: Popularized by Pattabhi Jois in 1940 this type uses precise and sequential postures that require tremendous muscle strength. Creates lean and strong muscles with great balance. Attention to breathing is a must in this intense and strenuous practice. Best for: Very advanced students needing little direction with ability to stick to strict guidelines. The Astangi: Superhero in a tight, unassuming package.

Hot Yoga: A popular type that raises the heart rate with fast moving postures in a heated room often 90-100 degrees that promotes the release of toxins. A heated practice also encourages more flexibility and helps stretch deeper muscle tissue. Vinyasa flow and Ashtanga are also often practiced in heated rooms. Best for: Those wanting weight loss and a heart rate raising practice. The hot yogi: A sweaty mess, feeling like a million bucks.

Jivamukti: Created by Sharon Gannon in 1984 and rooted in yogic philosophy, Jivamukti encourages compassion for all living beings and teaches the most important tenants of yoga. Suitable for all levels of students due to its attention to yoga education but fast flowing postures are best suited for intermediate students. Chants, mantras and flowing postures are a part of this practice. Common chant: May all living beings be happy and free. Best for: Vegetarians; those seeking a deeper understanding of the core of yoga. All levels welcomed. The Jivamukti yogi: Concientious being. Try How-to Eagle pose to connect with nature and the self in this yoga practice.

Yin Yoga: Created by a martial artist, postures are held for long periods with surrender to gravity. Stretches ligaments and muscles often ignored in other practices. The yin (cooling) practice should be practiced to complement yang (heating) practices such as running or cycling. This coupling is believed to balance the body and create harmony. Most postures are seated or lying down however, holding passive postures can be the most challenging. Best for: All students wanting a deep stretch while stilling the mind. The Yin Yogi: Gentle souls, all stretched out. Try a Yin Yoga turtorial.

Restorative: Practice designed for those with injuries or illnesses. A very gentle practice where props such as bolsters and blankets are used to increase relaxation. Calming music and dimmed lighting are also used to promote a feeling of safety. Best for: sufferers of PTSD and those seeking stress relief. The restorative yogi: Seekers of calming cocoons.

Bikram: In spite of the controversy surrounding founder Bikram Choudry, Bikram yoga is a popular practice involving the same 26 postures with 2 breathing techniques in every class. The practice is performed in a heated room (104 degrees) with a specific level of humidity for optimal health benefit. Best for: Advanced students wanting the consistency of knowing what postures to expect. Ideal for those wanting an exercise routine for weight loss. The Bikram yogi: Routinely sweaty.

It’s fun exploring and trying out different types of yoga. What is your favorite yoga type?