How to Find the Yoga That Works for You
One of the things I love about yoga is that there are so many different styles of yoga and different ways to practice them. There are a variety yoga styles, but some of the most common ones include Hatha, Vinyasa, Yin, and Restorative yoga. Whether it’s in a studio, outside, or at home, yoga can be practiced almost anywhere. Oftentimes, the most difficult part is taking a leap of faith to begin your yoga journey. The more you make your practice a regular routine, the more your body becomes accustomed and knows what to expect. If you sit down on your mat in the same spot every day, you build an energy in that area that serves as a safe and comfortable space for yourself. When beginning your journey, try to find a time and place that works best for you. Everyone is different, and you can adjust your practice to best serve you specifically.
Common Yoga Styles
Overall, yoga aims to create a union of the mind, body, and spirit. Each yoga style focuses on different kinds of practice and techniques. While these yoga styles utilize breath and body movement, they all vary in approach and experience.
Hatha
Hatha is a path of yoga that uses the physical body in an effort to reach a oneness with ourselves and the universe. Under the Hatha path of yoga, there are many styles in which to practice. Classes are commonly labeled as Hatha yoga and are typically focused on the body, mind, and spirit at a slower pace and poses are held for a longer period of time than in Vinyasa.
Vinyasa
Vinyasa style yoga is typically a flow that uses the breath to transition from one pose to the next. The breath is a great tool to connect the mind, body, and spirit. It may be helpful to have some experience with the foundation and alignment of basic poses as vinyasa moves through these poses at a quicker pace. Ashtanga yoga is a common vinyasa style that uses a specific sequence of poses.
Yin
Yin yoga is a very slow-paced practice that focuses on deep stretching. Most of the poses in Yin take place on the floor and are held for a few minutes each. The deep stretching can be intense as we are better able to notice the sensations in our bodies.
Restorative
Restorative yoga is a very relaxing style that uses a lot of props and holds poses for a few minutes each. This style is very passive as the ground and props support you, allowing yourself to relax completely.
These are just a few of the most common styles of yoga. There are many more styles that incorporate different techniques. With so many ways to practice yoga, you get to choose the kind of yoga that works for you. All classes are different and all teachers are different. Some may not resonate with you, but once you find what works best for you, your yoga journey can benefit you in ways you didn’t even know possible.
Yoga in Numbers
The ancient practice of yoga has become more and more popular over time. With over 36 million Americans practicing yoga today, there are countless resources available to assist you on your yoga journey, wherever you may be.
Source: The Good Body (2018)
