| The term Yoga generally refers to variations of the | | | | in this guide. Hatha Yoga classes are generally thought |
| Hatha Yoga practice of physical postures (asana) for | | | | to be a gentler than others. Many locally taught classes |
| health and experience of well-being. In the west, | | | | will fit into this category, as well as ones taught in |
| generally, there tends to be less of a spiritual approach | | | | Gyms, Healthclubs and Adult schools. |
| and the focus is more physical with stretching, | | | | Ashtanga: Aerobic, Vigorous. |
| strengthening and breathing. | | | | The Ashtanga Yoga style features several set |
| There are many different styles of Yoga available. | | | | sequences of postures, flowing at a vigorous pace, |
| Most are variations in aerobic quality, sequencing of | | | | designed to build flexibility strength and stamina. |
| postures, breath control, room temperature, alignment, | | | | Practitioners synchronize their breath with the postures |
| use of props or in some cases meditation, philosophy | | | | and focus on continuity of movement and elimination |
| and chanting. | | | | of toxins through body heat. Introduced to the west by |
| Most classes consist of a series of static postures or | | | | Patabai Jois. |
| asanas. Some postures are practiced standing, laying | | | | Iyengar: Correct Alignment of the Postures. |
| down or are inverted. One posture, Salutation to the | | | | The Iyengar style Yoga is primarily focused on precise |
| Sun, is a dynamic aerobic stretching series of | | | | posture alignment, held for longer periods of time, along |
| movements. | | | | with mental discipline to experience the full benefits of |
| Using the guide below, you can learn about and | | | | yoga. Assistive props are frequently used to help hold |
| choose a style or styles that seem to fit with your | | | | the postures for beginners. Iyengar principles are used |
| personality, level of fitness, your goals and your overall | | | | by other styles. Teachers undergo especially rigorous |
| condition (Pre/Post natal, injuries, medical concerns). An | | | | training and may also be certified in yoga therapeutics. |
| attempt has been made to differentiate the styles | | | | The Iyengar style was developed by B.K.S. Iyengar. |
| from one another for comparison sake, however all | | | | Power: Aerobic, Vigorous. |
| styles have much in common. | | | | Power yoga is a derivative of Ashtanga and is similar |
| Hatha: Good All-Around Approach. | | | | except the sequences may vary widely for each |
| Hatha Yoga is the most popular form of Yoga. Usually | | | | class, but they maintain the emphasis on strength and |
| a Hatha Yoga class is a good entry into learning the | | | | flexibility with breath, and are a bit less focused on |
| postures and starting a practice and is not particularly | | | | alignment. |
| aligned with any specialized style described elsewhere | | | | |