Yoga, Where to Start?

Ashtanga, Vinyasa, Iyengar?  Where does one begin? So many types of yoga classes out there and so little time.

The key is to start with one and see how you like it.  Yoga is very much about the experience and no matter how much you read about it you will not get the full experience until you try it out and feel it in your body.  Yes, there is a little bit of trial and error but hopefully the guide below will help you determine at least where to start and narrow down which classes to try based on your interests and preferences.

Contemporary Yoga Styles

Hatha – Is a general term that incorporates a variety of yoga styles. Standard poses are sequenced at a gentle and slow pace.

Iyengar – A versatile system marked by its attention to precise anatomical alignment within poses. The extensive use of props, allow students to perform the poses safely and effectively. It also allows them to go deeper into the poses. Poses are held for a few minutes at a time and modified to the student’s ability.

Ashtanga – Also called Ashtanga Vinyasa yoga.  There are 6 groups of asanas (poses), now known as the six “series” of Ashtanga Vinyasa, each a set sequence of poses, along with teachings and philosophy.  Ashtanga Vinyasa is traditionally taught in “Mysore style,” in which each student in a class moves through a sequence at his/her own pace and the teacher gives individual guidance and adjustments.

Bikram – A system of 26 poses. The room temperature is set to at least 105 degrees Fahrenheit. Each of the twenty-six poses is performed twice, for 30 seconds or a minute, in a set sequence in a standard 90 minute class. Known for its rigor and consistency.

Kundalini – An energizing practice that blends repetitive gestures with strong breath techniques, meditation and chanting. Repetitions may last several minutes. Hands-on adjustments are generally not a feature of this style.

Vinyasa Flow – Somewhat less definable than other approaches because it embodies the continuous dynamic evolution of the practice. As in Ashtanga Vinyasa yoga, Vinyasa Flow moves steadily from pose to pose in sequences of movements synchronized with the breath often pausing to hold poses for various lengths of time while maintaining the rhythmic flow of breath. However unlike Ashtanga Vinyasa, each class offers a different sequence of poses.

Power Yoga – Also known as power Vinyasa, power flow, hot power yoga etc… The emphasis on yoga as a vigorous workout drawn primarily from the Ashtanga Vinyasa method. Many asanas are taught in modified forms that make them more accessible to students interested in a physical workout. Most classes include long sets of standing balancing poses sequenced for their intense workout effect.

Anusara – A uniquely integrated style of Hatha yoga that blends principles of alignment with a heart centered approach. Many people gravitate to Anusara both for its heart centered approach and for the feeling of belonging to a conscious community of like minded individuals.

Viniyoga – A highly therapeutic and usually gentle system, in which poses are adapted to the individual based on the needs of the student and the teacher’s diagnosis.

Most reputable yoga studios have a free class or beginner special. Find one in your area and give yoga a try today!

Eileen Filomeno, RYT, is a Yoga Teacher in Berkeley, California. She is inspired to share her love of yoga and is committed to sustainable, organic living and well–being.