YOGA STYLES

Yoga has evolved over the centuries resulting in many different strands and styles. Nearly all styles are rooted in Hatha yoga, which focuses on developing control of the body through Asanas or postures. It is a common misconception that you need to be flexible to do yoga. Yoga helps you to become flexible, so the more inflexible you are, the more benefit you will gain from it.

No style of yoga is better than another. It is simply a matter of personal preference. The realisation of how we are now and what we want to get out of yoga is important when trying to make the most informed choice from the many disciplines available. This is true no matter how experienced we are.

Every style of yoga will incorporate a Yin and Yang (relaxing and dynamic) approach to varying degrees. Styles which are predominately Yang are active, dynamic and energetic eg. Bikram, Jivamukti and Ashtanga. Styles which are more Yin focused are by comparison more passive, receptive and internal eg. Samadhi yoga and Sahaja yoga. Styles such as Hatha and Sivananda yoga use a more balanced combination of the two. These blends of both Yin and Yang doctrines compliment one another in a way best suited to individual practitioners.