Last updated November 4, 2024
Yoga has been around for centuries and is commonly practiced in Eastern cultures. In recent decades, the number of individuals in Western cultures practicing yoga has increased significantly.
When it comes to yoga styles, Western cultures typically adopt Hatha practices. Hatha is a generic term that encompasses physical movement, flexibility and relaxation. Most of the yoga practices listed in our guide fall within this category.
Not all yoga styles are created equal, however. If you’re looking for a specific wellness experience, choosing a yoga style that aligns with your goals is important.
Beginner Guide to Different Types of Yoga and Their Benefits
Whether you’re looking for a challenging workout or a relaxing escape, there’s a yoga style out there that’s perfect. Likewise, many wellness yoga retreats adopt these varieties, so you can find the perfect one to match your needs.
1. Bikram Yoga
Bikram yoga is a type of hatha yoga composed of 26 postures performed in a specific order. The room temperature is set at 105 degrees Fahrenheit to allow your muscles to warm up and prevent injuries. The class lasts 90 minutes, and the 26 postures are done in a specific sequence with specific breathing patterns.
Bikram yoga is focused on physical fitness and overall health. It can help improve strength and flexibility while also promoting better focus and concentration. Additionally, Bikram yoga is said to increase energy levels and bolster the immune system.
Because the room is heated during Bikram yoga sessions, the poses are more challenging than those in other types of yoga. Nevertheless, Bikram yoga remains one of the most popular forms of yoga today.
2. Iyengar Yoga
Iyengar Yoga is an incredibly popular form of yoga. It is a form of yoga that emphasizes precision, perfection and proper alignment during each pose. Blocks, blankets, straps and other props are used to facilitate these goals of movement. The idea is to master one pose before moving to the next.
This form of yoga is effective for improving flexibility, strength and posture. Though less active, Iyengar is both physically and mentally challenging. Instructors are extensively trained making this ideal for those with injuries and chronic illnesses.
3. Vinyasa Yoga
Vinyasa, which translates to “breath-synchronized movement” in Sanskrit, is a type of yoga that is physically demanding and done in a hot room with a fast flow of yoga postures.
Usually lasting between 60 and 90 minutes, vinyasa yoga classes provide improved balance, strength and flexibility, as well as working out the muscles in the back, abdomen, arms and legs.
Vinyasa yoga, known for its fluid movements and breath-based sequences, is one of the most popular forms of yoga in Western societies. Though it is physically demanding, it is also one of the most rewarding styles of yoga.
4. Ashtanga Yoga
Ashtanga yoga is a style of yoga developed by K. Pattabhi Jois, a yoga master trained in the Hindu discipline of Ashtanga. The practice of Ashtanga yoga has been known to offer many benefits, including improved flexibility, strength and endurance.
Ashtanga yoga is a dynamic form of yoga traditionally practiced in a heated room, with the individual holding each pose for a specific amount of time, depending on their experience level. The poses are held in a specific order, with each pose becoming more difficult than the previous one.
This ancient form of yoga is similar to Vinyasa as it also focuses on breathing and movement. However, this yoga style is more rigid and structured offering the same consistent postures and sequence of movements.
Like Vinyasa, Ashtanga is physically active, which makes it likely you will experience a challenging workout.
5. Restorative Yoga
Restorative yoga is a gentle form of yoga meant to rejuvenate, restore and calm the nervous system. It is geared toward people seeking a slower form of yoga to help them relax, breathe deeply and destress.
Restorative yoga is the form of yoga that is the opposite of dynamic or active yoga. It is generally a passive, restful practice that includes lying or sitting in a variety of postures and holding them (isometrics).
This style of yoga differs from other forms in that it focuses less on improving flexibility or strength and more on promoting relaxation and deep breathing. The poses are designed to calm the nervous system and encourage mindful breathing, allowing you to release stress and find inner peace.
6. Anusara Yoga
Anusara is one of the more recent styles that has gained increasing popularity. The practice was developed in the late 1990s and includes its universal principles of alignment to guide movements. This style of yoga draws from a wide range of yoga traditions to create a more challenging and versatile practice.
This yoga style is physical and focuses on core stability and spinal mobility, with the intention to open the heart and one’s inner goodness.
The name of this form of yoga is derived from the Sanskrit word anusara, which means “flowing with grace.” Anusara yoga is not strictly a religious practice and can be adapted to the practitioners’ needs.
Anusara yoga is a path of spiritual growth with a focus on living in the present and fostering a positive attitude in order to achieve inner peace. It aims to work in harmony with the universe and to be in harmony with others. As a practice, it includes a set of principles, postures, and techniques that help people develop their full potential.
Ready to Explore Yoga
With so many different types of yoga, it can be difficult to decide which style you’ll enjoy the most. We hope that this guide helps you determine the type of yoga best suited to you and that you will find the perfect class—whether it’s at a local yoga studio, your own home or some beautiful and far away yoga or wellness retreat (highly recommended). By knowing which style of yoga works for you, you can better choose the wellness experience of your dreams.
About Vacayou
At Vacayou [pronounced VACAY – YOU], we believe that travel has the power to change lives. The power to revive, rejuvenate and redirect your inner wellness warrior. And that’s why we’re here. Vacayou brings the world of wellness travel to you!
No matter how far or how adventurous, our team scours the globe to curate the best in wellness travel. However, the booking process can often be time-consuming and complicated. We’ve made it much easier to search, discover, and book wellness and active vacations. With Vacayou’s Instant Book, your dream wellness getaway is now just one click away.
Start the trip of your lifetime today, with Vacayou. We are here to help create a healthier global community through wellness and active travel.
To keep up with the latest wellness trends and experiences, be sure to subscribe to our newsletter.
