There are basically 8 types of yoga:

1.Vinyasa Yoga

Vinyasa yoga is popular and is taught at most studios

and gyms. “Vinyasa” means linking breath with
movement. The postures are usually done in a flowing
sequence, or "vinyasa flow." The fluid movements can
be memorized and done as a moving meditation,
almost like a dance.

The popularity of this style of yoga comes from the

sensual movements, pleasant music, usually (but not
always) practiced in a dark room, or sometimes by
candlelight and with the eyes closed.

2. Ashtanga Yoga

Ashtanga means “eight limbs” and encompasses a yogic

lifestyle. Most people identify Ashtanga as traditional
Indian yoga. Like Vinyasa yoga, the Ashtanga yoga
asanas (postures) synchronize breath with movement
as you move through a series of postures.

It was brought to the United States by Sri K. Pattabhi

Jois in the early 20th century. The series of postures
are practiced the same way every time and consist of
Sun Salutation A, Sun Salutation B, a standing
sequence, and a closing sequence. The practice is
usually performed without music, and sometimes
without verbal instruction (in silence).

3. Iyengar Yoga

Also based on the Eight Limbs of Yoga, Iyengar yoga is

named after B.K.S. Iyengar, a famous yogi from India.
It was popularized in the West about the same time as
Ashtanga yoga.

The emphasis on this practice is alignment in the

asanas using breath control through pranayama and
the use of props (bolsters, blankets, blocks and straps.)
This style of yoga is usually taught without music and at
a slower pace designed to assist students to get deeper
into the postures.

4. Bikram Yoga

Bikram yoga was designed by Bikram Choudhury in the

1970s, who brought the practice to California from
India.

Class consists of the same twenty-six yoga postures and

two breathing exercises. It is ninety minutes long and
done in a room that is 105 degrees Fahrenheit with 40%
humidity. The room is bright and the students face
mirrors to check proper posture and alignment. There
is no music during class.

5. Jivamukti Yoga

Jivamukti was created in 1984 by Sharon Gannon and

David Life in New York City. ivamukti translates to
“liberated being.”
Class incorporates Sanskrit chanting, Pranayama, and
movement (Asanas), with a theme or lesson for each
class. This is a good blend of spiritual and physical
exercise.

6. Power Yoga

Power yoga is a more active approach to the traditional

Hatha yoga poses. The Ashtanga yoga poses are
performed more quickly and with added core exercises
and upper body work.

The sequences are not the same every time, and there is
often upbeat music. Vinyasa yoga can also be Power
yoga, depending on the gym or studio that is hosting
the class.

7. Sivananda Yoga

Sivananda yoga was brought to the United States by

Swami Vishnudevananda in 1957. This is a yoga system
based on the five yogic principals: proper breathing,
relaxation, diet, exercise, and positive thinking. These
work together to make a healthy yogic lifestyle.

The asana practice is usually twelve basic postures or

variations of the Asanas, with Sun Salutations and
Savasana. There is no music.

8. Yin Yoga

Yin yoga is a meditative practice that allows your body

to become comfortable in a pose without doing any
work (strength). It is also called Taoist yoga, and
focuses on lengthening the connective tissues within
the body. It is meant to compliment Yang yoga, or
muscle-forming yoga practices.

If Yang is active, then Yin is passive, meaning the

muscles are allowed to relax with gravity and rest. This
is usually performed with the assistance of props, and
there is little or no music in class.
There are many more types and styles of yoga practices,
and each one is unique. When you find a practice or a
studio that works for you, stick with it. Make your
practice part of your life, and you will begin to harvest
the benefits of your dedication and consistency.

If you are starting something new, come to class with

an open mind. And let go of any expectations; you
might surprise yourself and find joy in something that
you thought was not going to work for you. Remember
to be comfortable with change — although a teacher of
a certain style of yoga might discourage you from
straying, sometimes it’s good to mix it up, depending
on what your body and soul may need during different
aspects of your life or schedule. Whatever your yoga
practice, embrace it with love and grace.