Types of Yoga...
Updated: Aug 29
Decoding Yoga Styles: A Comprehensive Guide to Help You Begin Your Journey
Embarking on a yoga journey can be both exciting and overwhelming. With so many styles to choose from, it's natural to feel a tad perplexed about where to start. Fear not, for we're here to guide you through the diverse world of yoga, helping you discover a practice that resonates with your needs and preferences. Whether you're a newcomer eager to embrace the benefits of yoga or an experienced yogi seeking new horizons, this blog is your compass to navigating the various paths available. Let's delve into the intricacies of different yoga styles, unravel their unique attributes, and help you find the perfect practice that aligns with your journey towards well-being.
Yoga Studio - Karma Coast Collective, Tynemouth
Contents:
Best for beginners: Hatha
Most dynamic: Ashtanga/Vinaysa
Most Chill: Yoga Nidra/Restorative
Most structured: Ashtanga
Most Variety: Mandala
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Vinyasa
What is it?
Most popular
Links postures together using conscious transitions
Each movement is initiated by the breath
How can it help me?
Great for mobility, heart health and fitness
Can reduce stress, blood sugar and cholesterol
Good for people who need to move before they can become still
Yin
What is it?
Holds postures for 3-5 minutes
Target the joints, ligaments, connective tissues and deep fascia by relaxing muscles
Taoist priests taught this practice to Kung Fu practitioners around 2000 years ago
How can it help me?
Improves the energy flowing to our organs (rather than healthy muscles in Vinyasa)
Deeply calms and balances mind and body
Improves circulation and flexibility, as well as joint mobility
Hatha (great for beginners)
What is it?
Hatha Yoga is an ideal starting point for beginners.
This gentle practice involves holding postures and focuses on alignment, breathing, and mindfulness.
How can it help me?
It helps build a solid foundation for other yoga styles and promotes balance, flexibility, and relaxation.
Low intensity exercise so easy on the body
Increases flexibility and strength
Mandala
What is it?
Combo of Vinyasa and Yin Yoga to target a group of muscles
Move circularly round the mat
A holistic practice connecting body-mind to the elements
How can it help me?
Can improve perspectives and creativity
Improves mobility, flexibility and great for heart health
Targets both muscles and the connective tissues/fascia/joints
Ashtanga
What is it?
One of the most popular practices in the world
A set sequence of postures
Working with physical endurance, stamina and flexibility
Based around the 8 Limbs of Yoga
How can it help me?
Fantastic for physical health
Promotes inner peace and mental clarity
Improves focus and mental resilience
Restorative
What is it?
A gentle, restful and passive stretching practice
Uses props to support and release body towards the earth
Mainly practiced on the floor
Hold poses for long lengths of time - can be up to 20 mins
How can it help me?
Soothing practice for the mind and body
Great for people who struggle to sleep/need rest
Improves sleep
Studies show it can relieve musculoskeletal pain
Yoga Nidra
What is it?
Translated as 'Yogic Sleep'
Uses the senses to explore the body and breath to turn inwards
Enter a deeper state of relaxation into conscious sleep
Access delta brainwaves, responsible for the healing and restoration that happens in your body during deep sleep.
How can it help me?
Great for people struggling with sleep
One study reports an increase of up to 65% dopamine post practice
Studies show relief of symptoms in central nervous system diseases, such as, Parkinson's
Sound Healing
What is it?
It involves the therapeutic use of sound, often through instruments like singing bowls and gongs.
How can it help me?
Sound Healing offers a unique way to enhance relaxation and promote healing. The vibrations are known to have a positive impact on the body, mind, and spirit.
Better pain management
Lower stress levels
Fewer mood swings
Improved sleep
Yoga is a magnificent journey that offers a variety of paths to well-being. Whether you're drawn to the flow of Vinyasa, the calm of Yin, the strength of Ashtanga, or the deep relaxation of Restorative practices, there's something for everyone. Each style brings its unique advantages, helping you cultivate physical vitality and inner tranquility. Whichever path resonates with you, remember that yoga is not just a practice; it's a lifelong journey of self-discovery and holistic wellness. Dive into these practices and embark on a transformative journey towards better health and a more centered mind.
Discover the beauty of yoga, explore the intricacies of each style, and allow the power of mindful movement and stillness to enrich your life. Start your yoga journey today and experience the transformation firsthand!
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