Yoga types

Through the years, yoga has become not only a spiritual exercise, but also physical one. There have been many styles developed. Anybody can find their own that suits them the best.

These are the most popular styles of yoga: 

1. Hatha – that is good for beginners; typically involves a set of physical postures (yoga poses) and breathing techniques, practiced more slowly and with more static posture comparing to other yoga styles
2. Vinyasa Flow – is a general term used to describe many different types of classes. Vinyasa tends to be a more dynamic style of yoga that incorporates series of poses called sun salutations, in which each movement is matched to the breath. Is called flow as it is a continuous movement from one posture to the next.
3. Ashtanga – is a dynamic, intense, flowing style of yoga founded by Pattabhi Jois in the 1960s. Ashtanga employs six established sequences of postures that link every movement to breath. There is a set of poses performed always in the same order. This practice is very physically demanding because of the continuous movement from one pose to the next and the emphasis on daily practice.
4. Iyengar– is a form of yoga as exercise that has an emphasis on detail, precision, and alignment in the performance of yoga postures by using a range of tools, such as blocks, blankets, straps, chairs etc.
5. Kundalini– is a combination of Bhakti Yoga (practice of devotion and chanting), Raja Yoga (the practice of mediation/mental and physical control) and Shakti Yoga (for the expression of power and energy). This yoga style is all about releasing the kundalini energy in your body said to be trapped, or coiled, in the lower spine.
6. Bikram– called after Bikram Choudhury and contains a sequence of set poses in a sauna-like room (set to 105 degrees and 40% humidity). The sequence includes a series of 26 basic postures, each one is being performed twice. Many of these poses are focused on proper alignment.
7. Yin– is a passive practice that includes variations of seated and supine poses typically held for 3 to 5 minutes, accessing deeper layers of fascia. Yin yoga’s aim is the release of tension in key joints: ankles, knees, hips, whole back, neck, and shoulders.
8. Restorative – this style focuses on body relaxation but helps to cleanse and free your mind. Normally involves only five or six poses, supported by props that allow you to completely relax and rest. Held for 5 minutes or more, restorative poses include light twists, seated forward folds, and gentle backbends.
9. Prenatal – it includes postures that practitioners have designed for women who are pregnant. It can support in getting back into shape after pregnancy as well as supporting health during pregnancy. Is one of the best types of exercise for expectant moms because of the pelvic floor work, focus on breathing, and bonding with the growing baby; prenatal yoga also facilitates mothers prepare for labor and delivery.
10. Anusara – is a modern-day Hatha yoga system founded by John Friend. Anusara means “flowing with grace,” “going with the flow,” “following your heart.” Emphases on spirals and how each body part should be moving, and it is also known for its focus on heart opening.
11. Jivamukti – it is a style of yoga created by David Life and Sharon Gannon in 1984. Jivamukti is a physical, ethical, and spiritual practice, combining a vigorous yoga as exercise, vinyasa-based physical style with adherence to five central tenets: shastra, bhakti, ahimsā, nāda, and dhyana. A series of chants usually open the beginning of class followed up by a series of poses that align with the five tenets.

These are the most common styles, though there are much more. As you can see, you can easily choose the one that fits you the best! Start unrolling your SANA mat and enjoy!