When you look at a yoga schedule, you might be surprised by all the different types of yoga classes available. If you are new to yoga or have only practiced one or two types of yoga, you might also be left wondering what exactly each of these different types of practices entails, and which one is the best type of yoga for you.
The beauty of yoga is that yoga is for everyone. And depending on what yoga means to you and what you are seeking on a particular day, week, month or year, there is a class or several types of classes that are well-suited for you. To choose the best type of yoga for you, it is helpful to understand what each one is and what you can expect from a practice.
At the end of this article, you’ll find a link to a quiz that can help further point you in the right direction.
The following four types of yoga are regularly offered at the RipJack Inn. If you are in Playa Grande for four days or more, why not try them all!
The Best Type of Yoga for You
Vinyasa Flow
Vinyasa flow can be summed up as a yoga practice that involves breath to fluid movement. You will flow from one posture to the next in a varied sequence that is likely to be different in every class you take. You can expect several sun salutations and short holds if any.
This is an ideal class for you if you like to move, want to build your strength, improve your balance, and increase your flexibility. Depending on the instructor, some classes are more challenging than others. You might even see classes labeled “power vinyasa,” which indicates the class is faster paced.
A vinyasa flow is an excellent workout, as well as a lovely way to get out of your head.
Hatha
Hatha yoga is a very traditional form of yoga in which many modern yoga practices are derived from. Hatha harmoniously blends breath, movement, and meditation into one sweet practice. This is a great type of yoga for beginners, as it is a bit slower-paced and really focuses on the basic and essential yoga postures.
Yin
A yin yoga practice is a meditative and passive practice that involves holding poses for longer periods of time. By holding certain poses for several minutes, the benefits of the practice are targeted at the connective tissues in the body and can greatly benefit the pelvis, hips, spine, and lower back. Yin yoga is especially blissful as an end-of-the-day practice.
Restorative
Restorative yoga is similar to yin in that it is a passive practice in which you hold poses. However, in a restorative practice, you might hold poses upwards of twenty-minutes. This very gentle practice usually involves props such as bolsters, blankets, straps, and pillows. Restorative yoga is truly a treat for your mind, body, and soul.
Everyone has different personalities, different bodies, different physical limitations or injuries, and different reasons for wanting to practice yoga. How you feel physically and emotionally can also vary from day-to-day. What’s so unique about yoga is that there is a type of yoga that is best for you for every unique variation of you.
What Kind of Yoga is Right for You Quiz
Stay tuned for a follow-up on four other types of yoga commonly offered at yoga studios and on yoga retreats.
