There are plenty of yoga types out there but you shouldn’t feel confused by them. You are probably wondering how you can tell the difference between Ashtanga and Anasura yoga. We did our research and put together the following types of yoga, which are among the most popular ones. Hopefully, this will help you on your trip to yoga bliss.
The Most Common Yoga Types to Know About
Let’s take a look at four most common yoga types that you should know about. Some of them are great for beginners.
1. Ashtanga Yoga
This yoga type is built on wise ancient yoga teachings. Still, it wasn’t popular in the Western countries until the 1970s.
During this sequence, one must rigorously follow specific postures. Every pose or movement is linked to a breath. It is quite a demanding practice.
Check out the video below to learn the basic moves if you’re a beginner.
2. Anasura Yoga
Anasura is a more modern type of yoga. It was developed in 1997, by John Friend, an American yogi.
Although it is a relatively new practice in the world of yoga, it has rapidly gained popularity among yoga enthusiasts due to its concept and ideology.
Anasura bases its practice on the belief that all people have an intrinsic goodness. Through Anasura the students learn how to open their hearts and experience grace.
The following video will help you get into Anasura yoga; it is a complete class with Marie Lumholtz, a certified yoga instructor.
3. Iyengar Yoga
This is an incredibly meticulous yoga style. Students are meant to find their body’s proper alignment in each pose of this sequence.
To organize this yoga type, studios use all kind of props such as straps, blocks, chairs, and even bolsters.
Iyengar involves a lot of staying put poses which is quite challenging, to be honest. It is a great option for those who suffer from a chronic condition or injury.
If you’re not already familiar with this type of yoga, take a look at the following introduction video which explains what makes this method so unique.
4. Bikram Yoga
If you choose to do this yoga style to burn calories, rest assured! You will definitely sweat a lot. The class will challenge both your mind and body. An interesting fact is that classes are held in heated rooms.
There are 26 different poses as well as two breathing techniques in this type of yoga.
It lasts 90 minutes and its main purpose is weight loss and flushing toxins.
Maggie Grove is a certified Bikram yoga instructor, check out one of her classes below. Perhaps you will fall in love with this type of yoga.
Types of Yoga That Match Different Experience Levels
No matter what level you are in, during yoga you need to focus on your breathing mostly as well as on your posture and balance. Moreover, all levels and types have the goal of providing a centered peace and calm. The best yoga types for beginners are those that have easier asanas (sequences) such as the already mentioned Iyengar or Ashtanga.
If you’ve already reached the intermediate level, you should definitely try more complex sequences like Bikram. Either way, make sure to start learning yoga with a trained and experienced teacher who will know how to properly correct your body position and breathing technique.
Summing It Up
So, you have finally decided to do yoga but you aren’t really sure what type of yoga to try first? We hope this article will help you make well-informed decisions that will completely change your life for the better.
If you have already experienced one or more of these yoga styles, feel free to share your insights with us, in the comment section. Thanks for reading!
