Yoga is the practice of breathing and meditation combined with physical movement, and it has ancient Hindu roots. There are many different types of yoga and they all work your body a little differently. What makes each type of yoga different can depend on temperature, pace, flexibility, purpose, and more. Vinyasa, Ashtanga, Yin, Hatha, and Restorative yoga are just 5 of the many different types you can try out.
Hatha
- Creating balance between the body and mind is what Hatha yoga is all about. Poses are typically held for 5-10 breaths during practice. These longer poses help relaxation and improve flexibility. This type of yoga can be more suitable for beginners and can be used as a strength building foundation for other types of yoga.
Vinyasa
- Vinyasa is a flow of postures and breaths. This dynamic movement is linked to meditation and using your breathing as a tool. It can be used to strengthen and align the body and also improve your cardiovascular fitness.
Ashtanga
- Ashtanga integrates the eight limbs of yoga: moral codes, self discipline, posture, breath control, sense withdrawal, concentration, meditation, and oneness with self. It is an athletic form of Hatha and rooted with Vinyasa. It is a very physical practice with flowing movements between postures, but focuses on energy and breath.
Yin
- Yin yoga deeply lengthens the muscles and fascia (connective tissue) through postures to improve flexibility and mobility. Poses are held between 2 and 10 minutes to release tension in the body. It is a slower meditative style that can also aid sleep.
Restorative
- Restorative yoga helps your body come to a place of rest. It uses props to support the body to assist in deep rest and healing. By arranging the body to support deep relaxation, negative stress can be relieved.
Yoga can be physically active or relaxing, or both! There are types for all experience levels that everyone can try. Meditation can be the first step to trying yoga. At the end of the day, it's all about connecting your body and breath, not the fancy positions!