What Is The Best Yoga For Beginners?

Yoga is, in fact, a spiritual discipline based on the highest science and aimed at harmonizing the mind and body. It is an art and science of healthy living. The word "yoga" comes from the Sanskrit root "yuj", which means "to join", "to yoke" or "to unite".

Yoga For Beginners: The 9 Types You Need To Know

1. Hatha Yoga

This is all at the heart of this slow course, which requires you to breathe multiple times in each position. In many studios, hatha classes are considered a more forgiving form of yoga. However, the Sanskrit term hatha actually refers any yoga, which teaches physical postures.

2. Vinyasa Yoga

Liven up the flow with dynamic movements that combine movement and breathing in dance. Be prepared for heart palpitations, as most activities in any position are short-lived and can be done at a fast pace. Teachers often match the music to the rhythm of the pose sequence.

3. Iyengar Yoga

Here you can be picky about precision and detail, as well as body alignment in every pose. From yoga blocks and blankets to belts or rope walls, props can be your new best friend and help you perform a variety of movements safely and efficiently. Unlike vinyasa, each pose is held for a specific time. If you are new to Iyengar it is a good idea to get started with this technique early on, even if you have practiced other types of yoga.

4. Ashtanga Yoga

If you are looking for a sophisticated yet structured approach to yoga, try Ashtanga. Consists of a set of 6 sequential yoga, running and breathing positions in each position to create inner warmth. The trick is to do the same poses in the same order in every class. Some studios have instructors who call poses, whereas in Mysore style (part of Ashtanga) you have to do the series yourself. (But don't worry, there is always a teacher in the class to help you if you need to.)

5. Bikram Yoga

Bikram consists of 26 specific postures and two breathing exercises performed in a heated room up to 105 degrees and humidity 40%. All Bikram studios practice the same 90 minute sequence, so you know exactly what to do after developing your checkmate. Vigorous exercise with high temperatures can make your class stressful. If you're new to Bikram, take it easy. Take a break if necessary and remember to have a drink first.

6. Hot Yoga

Hot yoga is similar to bikram in that it is done in a heated room. However, teachers are not limited to a series of 26 bikram poses. It looks like you can pose in more detail versus thermal class, but don't overdo it as it can easily get overwhelming.

7. Kundalini Yoga

Celebrity fans including actor Russell Brand and writer Gabriel Bernstein have lent their support to the Kundalini cult. However, this physically and mentally challenging exercise is very different from a typical yoga practice. When you chant and meditate, you are doing kriyas (repetitive physical exercise combined with intense breathing exercises). The goal? To break through your internal barriers, releasing the untapped energy residing within you and bringing you a higher level of self-awareness.

8. Yin Yoga

If you want to calm and balance your body and mind, here you will find Zen. Unlike quick exercises like Ashtanga, the Yin Yoga pose is held for several minutes. This meditation exercise is designed to penetrate deeper into connective tissue and fascia and restore length and elasticity. Instead of using props to actively flex or activate muscles, the body can relax. As with meditation, it can be cold at first, but after a few hours of sticking, the refreshing power can grab you.

9. Restorative Yoga

Even if you feel like you're not doing much in a restorative yoga class ... that's the point. Softer, slower movements with longer delays allow the body to attack the parasympathetic nervous system, providing deeper relaxation. You can also use a variety of props, including blankets, mats, and yoga blocks, to fully support your body in any position.