21 Jun Which Type of Yoga Is Perfect for You?

Yoga is not just a practice that involves physical poses. It also includes the practice of uniting the breath and the mind, which can serve as a form of meditation or self-care ritual.  

Yoga is popular for improving overall flexibility while easing stress levels. Although considered a gentle form of exercise, it can also help improve strength depending on the approach and class level.  

If you are eyeing to start practicing, here are some popular types of yoga you should know.  

Hatha Yoga  

Hatha yoga is a combination of sitting and standing poses. It also focuses on strengthening, relaxation, and flexibility.  

Hatha yoga can be a perfect type of yoga for beginners as these classes usually start slowly and tend to have a relaxing flow.  

Vinyasa  

Vinyasa literally translates to “to place in a special way.” It refers to getting on the next pose while also making sure that your movements go with your breathing.  

Some instructors refer to these poses as Vinyasa:  

• Plank pose  
• Chaturanga Dandasana  
• Upward-facing Dog  
• Downward-facing Dog  

Vinyasa is suitable for those eyeing to try yoga practice with a workout but also looking to explore more traditional aspects of yoga while also practicing how to be present.  

Iyengar Yoga  

The poses in Iyengar yoga are held longer, with great support and alignment. This type of yoga is a great practice for those recovering from an injury.  

Studios teaching this type of yoga provide props such as blankets, blocks, and straps to help people find their proper alignment.  

Bikram and Hot Yoga  

These types of yoga practice are both done in a heated studio. They can be challenging and extreme.  

It has 26 fixed poses and two breathing patterns you perform in a sequence in a class. Hot yoga can be less structured, with varying sequences, intensities, and heat.  

Hot yoga is best practiced by people who are in good health and have previous experience with yoga.  

Ashtanga Yoga  

Ashtanga has a primary, intermediate, and advanced series. Each series has varying poses that are done in different sequences. It will then change once your instructor feels that you are ready for a new series.   

The primary series lasts for 90 minutes, with poses such as backbends and handstands.  

Ashtanga is perfect for the experienced practitioner as it will require strength, endurance, and consistency in the practice.  

Yoga can be a perfect inclusion in your routine if you are eyeing to learn more about stress management. However, there is no one-size-fits-all for stress management.  

Sometimes it will require lifestyle changes and other forms of relaxation.   

iCare has a list of wellness partners to help you achieve your better health goals in terms of stress management.  

Learn more about iCare’s wellness partners here: https://icare.com.ph/our-partners/lifestyle-partners/ 

SOURCE: 

https://www.healthline.com/health/fitness-exercise/types-of-yoga#Ashtanga- 

https://health.clevelandclinic.org/how-to-find-the-best-yoga-class-for-you