Whenever you hear the word YOGA, what pops into your head? Probably, you might see yourself gracefully twisting into a pose, breathing deeply on a mat, right? But here’s the thing – yoga comes in different types of styles, each tailored to fit unique needs of every practitioner out there.
Surprised? We figured out you might be, but it’s true! And now that you’re in the know, we bet you’re feeling a spark of curiosity. In this blog, Alpesh Yoga will dive into these diverse yoga styles. In fact, we will introduce you to an incredible multi-style yoga program. So you can actually experience them all in one transformative journey.
What are the Different Types of Yoga Styles?
Here are most popular and transformative types of yoga practiced around the world today:
Hatha yoga
It is said that Hatha Yoga is the mother of all physical yoga practices. We also consider it as a soft entry for those who are taking their very first steps into the world of yoga poses. The word Hatha is basically a combination of two elements:
– Ha (sun)
– Tha (moon)
This type of yoga style signifies equilibrium. It focuses on fixed poses asanas, breathing (pranayama), and alignment. The pace of hatha classes is slower. Meaning, you will have enough time to nag into the poses and understand your body and breath. It is even considered best for people returning after a long gap.
Vinyasa yoga
A yoga style type that makes you feel as though you are dancing? Vinyasa yoga is all about it! It is the marriage between movement and rhythm. Often been described as dynamic, Vinyasa links your breath with motion in a flowing, almost like a dancing practice.
No two vinyasa classes are the same. Sequences can either be extremely different or totally easy, depending on the creativity of the teacher. This type of yoga style is catchy, inspiring, and often set to music which makes it more entertaining. Vinyasa is perfect for those who are fond of moving, want to build strength, and prefer a more athletic yoga experience.
Ashtanga yoga
Ashtanga yoga is a serious and formal form of asanas that follows a series of postures. It involves synchronized breathing with a gradual series of asanas that smoothly transit into each other. As opposed to Vinyasa, this yoga style type follows a certain order. Making it more suited to those who prefer discipline and routine.
It is physically challenging, builds immense strength and flexibility, and is preferred by serious practitioners and athletes wanting to raise the stakes.
Yin yoga
One of the best different yoga styles, especially for office professionals. Yin Yoga is a quiet, meditative practice that focuses on the body’s connective tissues rather than muscles. This includes ligaments, joints, and fascia. Practitioners have to hold asanas for long durations (3-5 minutes or longer) for deep tissue release.
It is totally different than more dynamic yoga styles like Vinyasa or Ashtanga. Yin is deeply calming and suits well when someone wants to slow down in their life. Not only will you be able to get rid of stress but also increase flexibility in a thoughtful, passive way.
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Kundalini yoga
The next yoga style is different as it delves far deeper on the spiritual side rather than physical. We are talking about Kudalini yoga here! It helps yoga practitioners improve and awaken their dormant energy (kundalini) at the base of the spine through chanting (mantras), breathwork (pranayama), kriyas (sets of exercises) and meditation.
Performing Kundalini yoga often leads to a new degree of awareness and emotional purity. Many yoga schools around the world including Ekattva Yogshala are well known for their Kundalini yoga teacher training, where they teach students how to commune with the inner self.
Iyengar Yoga
Developed by B.K.S. Iyengar, Iyengar yoga style focuses on perfect alignment in every posture. It involves the use of props like blocks, straps, and bolsters to enable the students to get the right form. Very good option for those with low flexibility or injuries.
The attention to detail that you will be giving during this different type of yoga style is totally worth it as it will help you build precise alignment when performing a specific posture. Iyengar yoga also suits well to those who also love anatomy and recovering from physical setbacks.
Bikram Yoga
Hot yoga Bikram yoga is a hot yoga style performed in a heated room. We know you must be thinking, “Wait, really?” Yes, it’s true! The temperatures are set around 40 °C (104°F) with high humidity. It follows a fixed set of 26 poses and 2 breathing exercises in the same order during every class.
According to yoga experts, the heat can help detoxify the body, enhance flexibility, and advance endurance. When compared to different yoga styles that we’ve covered, Bikram yoga is considered physically and mentally challenging. However, it can be rewarding for those who love structure and sweat.
Why Join Alpesh’s Multi-Style Yoga Program?
Just imagine hearing the chirping of birds. A view that could leave you gasping at the sight of the Himalayas. Now include yoga in that! Alpesh Yoga’s multi-style teaching training course in Dharamshala will give full-fledged experience of life that we’re talking about.
Want to dip your toes in with a 100-hour multi-style yoga program? How about going full throttle with a 200-hour multi-style teacher training course? Either way, we’ve got you covered! Our courses cover Hatha, Vinyasa, Ashtanga, and much more – all under one roof.
They are not just about getting certificates but actual transformation. You will acquire effective skills, see spiritual development, and gain confidence either to teach or enrich your own practice. With small batches, experienced teachers, and serenity of Dharhamshala, you can call it an absolute learning retreat. The vibe? Encouraging, overwhelming (in the best way), and unforgettable.
Different Styles of Yoga: Final Words
There you go!
We told you about different types of yoga styles. Each one carries its own energy, benefits, and purpose. No matter where you stand in your yoga adventure, there’s a style that can speak to your soul and support your goals. All you need is to have some patience and do some research on your own.
And if you’re eager to explore multiple styles without hopping from one studio to another, just join Alpesh Yoga’s TTC programs in Dharamshala. We will help you learn, grow, and transform.
Got any queries to ask? Send them to alpeshyoga@gmail.com and have them answered by our yoga experts.