Types of Yoga: A Natural High

Yoga has been shown to reduce stress, increase flexibility, improve muscle tone & strength, improve posture and even help people lose weight. The word Yoga literally means “Union” the union of the self and the spirit, and in Indian traditions, it is so much more than just a physical exercise because of its meditative and spiritual core. There are various types of yoga practices available and we have listed a brief description of some below.

Hatha Yoga- The word Hatha means “force” in Sanskrit and this branch of yoga focuses on the physical body. This practice is very much adapted to the teacher’s personal style.

Vinyasa Yoga- Also known as “flow” yoga, it is a coordination of movement and breathe to flow from one pose to the next. The Sanskrit translation is “movement or position of limbs.”

Ashtanga Yoga- A vigorous style of yoga similar to vinyasa, corresponding every breath and movement while flowing from one pose to the next. Performing the poses in the exact same order every time.

Bikram Yoga- is a yoga practice with a series of twenty-six poses that are specifically designed to warm and stretch muscles in a very particular order. It was scientifically designed to work muscles, bones, joints, ligaments, tendons, glands and the organs of the body.

Anusara Yoga- Developed by John Friend in 1997 it is like a modern-day Hatha yoga. It means to go with the flow or to “follow your heart.” The perception is to “look for the good” first in the poses and practice and to create an uplifting experience for the students.

Restorative Yoga- This practice typically involves only 5 to 6 poses that are supported by props and allow the practitioner to completely relax. Most practices are based on the teachings of B.K.S. Lyengar

Hot Yoga- Is in most part the same as Bikram, except they deviate from the sequence somewhat and the yoga studio is heated up so bring a yoga towel and be prepared to sweat your tail off.

Namaste <3