A Complete Guide on Different Types of Yoga

There are many different types of yoga, all of whom offer different benefits (Image via Pexels @Rodnae Productions)
There are many types of yoga offering different benefits. (Image via Pexels/Rodnae Productions)

There are many types of yoga, but all of them have only one thing in common: promote physical and mental well-being.

The term 'yoga' means union. One of the benefits of the practice is that it helps bring harmony to the body and mind. By bringing the body and mind into harmony, as yoga does, one can find true health. Hence, the significance of yoga has never diminished, even in modern times.

If you want to know the basics before choosing a yoga class, read about the different types of yoga below. They form the basis for most yoga forms.


Different Types of Yoga and Their Benefits

Choosing the suitable yoga for yourself can be quite a challenge.(Image via Pexels/Mart Production)
Choosing the suitable yoga for yourself can be quite a challenge.(Image via Pexels/Mart Production)

The different types of yoga all have different purposes and benefits for the mind and body. Read on to learn more:

1) Hatha Yoga

Hatha yoga is one of the most basic forms of yoga. (Image via Pexels/Cottonbro Studio)
Hatha yoga is one of the most basic forms of yoga. (Image via Pexels/Cottonbro Studio)

Hatha is the Sanskrit word for force. Hatha yoga helps bring about a sense of balance or equilibrium in the physical self.

The focus of this practice of yoga is on balancing the body's energy centers, or chakras. Chakras are centers of vitality, or more technically, vortexes of energy. There are seven of them, and each one connects to a different set of organs and glands.

Hatha yoga is the physical practice of balancing the body and mind through a series of postures and positions. Out of all types of yoga, Hatha yoga has been shown to reduce stress, keep practitioners physically and mentally limber, and even help them look younger.

Moreover, it helps detox and restore the bodi's natural balance. Maintaining a regular Hatha yoga practice routine can also help you lose weight and gain muscle tone.


2) Vinyasa

Downward facing dog is one of the basic yoga poses. (Image via Pexels/Elina Fairytale)
Downward facing dog is one of the basic yoga poses. (Image via Pexels/Elina Fairytale)

Flow yoga is another name for this practice. Vinyasa is a compound word whose meaning can be broken down into its component parts: Vi, 'variation' and Nyasa, 'within limits'.

Out of the different types of yoga, Vinyasa is the one that combines physical movement with controlled breathing. Conscious breathing and a progression of postures mimic the natural rhythm of living.

If you prefer vigorous workouts, Vinyasa yoga is a good option for you. Furthermore, Vinyasa yoga is great for calming nerves, lifting mood, lowering blood pressure, and getting a good night's rest.

3) Iyengar Yoga

Iyengar yoga uses a lot of props to achieve a state of deeper relaxation. (Image via Pexels/Pavel Danilyuk)
Iyengar yoga uses a lot of props to achieve a state of deeper relaxation. (Image via Pexels/Pavel Danilyuk)

This methodical approach to yoga was created by B. K. S. Iyengar. Flexibility and strength are brought into harmony through correct posture.

To ensure that students of all ages, flexibilities and abilities are able to find the best alignment for their body. Most studios where it is taught stock up on a wide variety of props (blankets, blocks, straps, etc.).

Of the different types of yoga, this is a fabulous practice for those who are healing from an injury.

4) Bikram Yoga

BIkram yoga is performed inside a room heated to 95-105 degrees. (Image via Pexels/Rodnae Productions)
BIkram yoga is performed inside a room heated to 95-105 degrees. (Image via Pexels/Rodnae Productions)

Bikram Choudhury is credited as the founder of Bikram yoga. There is a set and fixed order to the 26 postures that make up this style of yoga, all of which are performed in a room heated to 105 degrees.

Among the many types of yoga, this one is probably the most taxing. The heat is meant to make practitioners perspire, helping remove toxins from the bosy. The first time you do it, you might even feel a little dizzy. In preparation, you should wear minimal clothing, consume copious amounts of water, and be kind to yourself when you need to rest.

5) Hot Yoga

Inspired by Bikram yoga, hot yoga refers to the practice of yoga in a room heated to between 95 and 100 degrees. Hot yoga typically refers to vinyasa classes practiced in hot studios.

These classes are great for increasing flexibility, as they get the muscles nice and warm. However, you still need to exercise caution, as it's easier to pull a muscle when the muscles are hotter than usual. Out of the different types of yoga, this one can be helpful for those trying to lose weight.

6) Ashtanga Yoga

Sri K. Pattabhi Jois first shared Ashtanga yoga with the rest of the world. Ashtanga is divided into three distinct "series," or groups of poses and stretches. There are three broad categories of series: beginner, beginner/intermediate, and advanced.

In each series, you will repeat a set of postures in order till you and your teacher agree that it's time to move on. Of the different types of yoga, Ashtanga can be great for more seasoned practitioners. Ashtanga yoga vs Hatha yoga can be difficult to choose from, so read about both before making a decision.

7) Kundalini Yoga

Kundalini yoga involves a lot of breath work. (Image via Pexels/Kampus Production)
Kundalini yoga involves a lot of breath work. (Image via Pexels/Kampus Production)

Of the different types of yoga, Kundalini yoga is the one that focuses on awakening your kundalini energy, also known as shakti, which is thought to be the primal energy located at the base of the spine.

There is more chanting, meditation, and deep breathing in this class than in others because of the spiritual nature of the practice. In fact, Kundalini yoga poses that help ease stress are becoming particularly popular these days.

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