Styles of Yoga

Yoga has officially taken over the planet! Yoga leggings have replaced jeans, mala beads taken the place of fine jewellery and if you don’t blame the moon for having an off day, your so last year darling! ha, ha.

Jokes aside, the commercialism of yoga does make me feel awkward, but its also a good depiction of its reach. Yoga is everywhere, and thats great because it means its very accessible.

Better still is its diversity. “There’s a yoga stye for everyone,” each offering unique benefits and experiences. Whether you’re seeking a vigorous workout, a deep meditative practice, or a gentle stretch, there’s a yoga style that can meet your needs. But, how do you know what style is right for you?

In today’s post i wanted to give you a helping hand and offer a quick summary of some of the most popular yoga styles and what you can expect from each.

1. Hatha Yoga

Description: Hatha Yoga is often considered the foundation of all yoga styles. I would say it’s really an umbrella term for all yoga that focuses on postures and raising a persons energy. It involves basic postures (asanas) and breathing exercises (pranayama) and is great for beginners due to its slower pace.

What to Expect:

• Slow-paced stretching

• Foundational yoga poses

• Emphasis on breathing techniques

• Introduction to meditation

2. Vinyasa Yoga

Description: Vinyasa Yoga, also known as Flow Yoga, involves a sequence of poses that flow smoothly into one another, synchronized with the breath.

What to Expect:

• Dynamic and continuous movement

• Breath-synchronised postures

• Creative sequences

• Moderate to fast pace

3. Ashtanga Yoga

Description: Ashtanga Yoga is a rigorous style involving a set sequence of postures linked by flowing movements. It’s physically demanding and follows a specific order of poses.

What to Expect:

• Structured and sequential poses

• Focus on strength, flexibility, and stamina

• Synchronisation of breath and movement

• Challenging practice

4. Iyengar Yoga

Description: Iyengar Yoga emphasises precision and alignment in each pose. Props such as belts, blocks, and wall ropes are often used to help achieve correct alignment.

What to Expect:

• Detailed instruction and alignment

• Use of props

• Poses held for longer durations

• Focus on posture and breath control

5. Kundalini Yoga

Description: Kundalini Yoga focuses on awakening the kundalini energy at the base of the spine through a combination of breath, movement, and sound.

What to Expect:

• Chanting and singing

• Breath control exercises (pranayama)

• Dynamic movement and poses

• Meditation and deep relaxation

6. Yin Yoga

Description: Yin Yoga is a slow-paced style where poses are held for longer periods (typically 3-5 minutes) to target deep connective tissues and improve flexibility.

What to Expect:

• Long-held passive poses

• Deep stretching and relaxation

• Focus on connective tissues

• Meditative and calming

7. Restorative Yoga

Description: Restorative Yoga is designed to relax and rejuvenate the body and mind. It uses props to support the body in gentle poses for extended periods.

What to Expect:

• Gentle and supportive poses

• Extensive use of props

• Emphasis on relaxation and restoration

• Slow and meditative practice

8. Power Yoga

Description: Power Yoga is a vigorous, fitness-based approach to vinyasa-style yoga. It focuses on building strength and endurance.

What to Expect:

• Intense and fast-paced practice

• Strength and flexibility training

• Minimal rest between poses

• High-energy workout

Choosing the Right Style

When choosing a yoga style, consider your fitness level, goals, and preferences. If you’re new to yoga, starting with Hatha or Iyengar Yoga can provide a solid foundation. For those seeking a more intense workout, Vinyasa, Ashtanga, or Power Yoga might be ideal. If relaxation and stress relief are your goals, Yin or Restorative Yoga can be deeply beneficial. Always remember to listen to your body and find a practice that feels right for you.

Yoga offers something for everyone, and exploring different styles can help you discover what resonates most with you.

You can join myself and the team at Yogalifeuk.com both in-studio at our Cheshire, UK, location or online. Download the Yogalifeuk app and hit the studio tabs for more details.

If you want to start with a 1-2-1 practice or join my beginner yoga course then email info@stuartpilkington.yoga and I will happily send you details of my next student intake.

Wishing you my best,

Stu