Yoga Styles Guide

Acro

Acro-yoga is a physical practice which blends elements of yoga, acrobatics, and healing arts to form a practice that cultivates trust, connection and playfulness between partners. This type of yoga is interactive and fun. Classes typically include partner-assisted postures, some massage and simple acrobatics techniques accessible to all levels of practitioners. There are 7 main elements that make up the practice: circle ceremony, postures, massage, partner flow, therapeutic flying, inversions and spotting, and partner acrobatics.

Aerial

Aerial Yoga is a relatively new way to practice yoga. In an Aerial Yoga class students practice the various postures and movements while suspended a few inches off the ground (over soft mats) by a hammock-like long piece of cloth, holding them by the waist. Aerial Yoga is designed to counteract gravity and increase flexibility by relieving compression, which releases tension, straightens the shoulders, and elongates the spine. This type of yoga is a fun practice for beginners and more advanced yogis. Beginner classes typically start on the floor and gradually move on to using the trapeze.

Agama

Agama is a Tantric Yoga school dedicated to traditional Hindu and Bhuddist methods of teaching spirituality. It offers a synthesis between the rational thinking of the West and the mystical traditions of the East. Asanas (poses) are held for longer periods than in most other styles, with a focus on energy centres (chakras). Classes are both dynamic and meditative, and are suitable for beginners and intermediate practitioners alike.

Akhanda

Created by Yogrishi Vishvketu, Akhanda Yoga classes balance all of the directional movements of the spine (flexion, extension, lateral flexion, rotation, and grounding), in all of the stations (standing, crouching, sitting, laying on the belly, laying on the back, arm balances and inversions). This style offers a balance between yang and yin - effort and allowing, in postures, meditation, and life. This style offers studies in asana, pranayama, mantra, visualization, relaxation and meditation.

Alignment

Alignment is a general term used in yoga to refer to the precise way in which the body should be positioned in each posture to avoid injury and obtain the maximum benefits. Some classes offer a specific focus on alignment. These classes generally provide individualized adjustment in the different poses so that students learn how to change or correct their own posture. Alignment-focused classes develop the strength, flexibility, and balance, and usually are very beneficial to beginners.

Ananda

Ananda is a classical style of yoga that combines postures and breath with the goal of harmonizing the body, mind, and spirit. Ananda Yoga enables the exploration of the inner dimensions of yoga and self-awareness, and it is designed to prepare the mind and the body for deep meditation. The use of affirmations while in the postures is a distinct feature of Ananda Yoga. A typical class includes postures, breathing techniques, meditation, and teachings on yoga philosophy. Classes also focus on proper alignment and posture transitions. Ananda is a relatively gentle experience, and is suitable for all ages, body types and physical conditions. It is based on the teachings of Paramahansa Yogananda (author of the spiritual classic, Autobiography of a Yogi). It was developed by Swami Kriyananda (Donald J. Walters), a direct disciple of Paramhansa Yogananda.

Antastha

Antastha Yoga is a practice of self- study, and withdrawal of sense achieved by using a blindfold. Being blindfolded enhances the practice of the asana and supports practitioners to reach a meditational state. Without a point of visual reference, the mind sharpens and increases the understanding and grasp of multidimensionality, in its purest form. The practice includes self-massage and hands-on adjustments, all combined to attune to the being while cutting off from physical and emotional blocks.

Anusara

Founded in 1997 by John Friend, Anusara is a modern school of yoga that integrates a strong emphasis on physical alignment with a positive, heart-oriented, and spiritually inspiring philosophy, whose premise is the belief in intrinsic goodness. Anusara classes focus on attitude, alignment, and action, and are accessible to students of different ages and abilities. Props (such as straps, block and pillows) are often used, and students are taught to open their heart, both physically and spiritually.

Aqua

This is low-impact yoga in a pool, where the warmth of the water encourages joints to open and muscles to relax. It's an excellent therapeutic modality for people who are challenged by practicing on a mat, as the weightlessness in the water takes the stress out of challenged joints. But, Aqua Yoga isn't just for those with dry-land limitations: an experienced practitioner can try new or challenging poses, and also get deeper into familiar poses in a relaxing environment.

Ashtanga

In Ashtanga Yoga students perform a set series of postures, always in the same order, beginning with a sequence know as Sun Salutations, and move from one pose to the next in a continual flow that links movement to breath. This vigorous practice produces intense internal heat that creates a strong body and a calm mind. Ashtanga Yoga builds strength, flexibility, and stamina, and is often considered to be more physically demanding than other types of yoga. Developed by K. Pattabhi Jois, this style of yoga uses a system based on six series of increasing difficulty. Ashtanga is the inspiration for the majority of vinyasa style yoga classes and for Power Yoga.

Baptiste

Developed by long-time practitioner Baron Baptiste, Baptiste Yoga combines elements of classical yoga (Ashtanga, Iyengar and Bikram) to build a practice that combines physical fitness with intuitive spiritual self-discovery. Baptiste Yoga classes offer a vigorous and challenging 90-minute flowing sequence in a heated room. While generally geared towards more athletic practitioners, everyone is welcome. Baptiste Yoga encourages students to work according to their own fitness level in order to bring personal transformation to their body, mind and soul.

Bhakti

Bhakti is a Sanskrit term meaning "devotion". This yoga of devotion is typically expressed through chanting, praising, and singing the various names of the Divine.

Bikram

Created by Bikram Choudhury, Bikram Yoga consists of a series of yoga poses performed in a heated room (usually 105¼ F/ 40¼ C). Bikram classes offer a vigorous and physically demanding practice that will get the heart rate up. Each class features a vigorous 90-minute sequence of 26 postures and two breathing exercises always performed in the same order. Yoga at this temperature promotes profuse sweating and increases flexibility. Bikram Yoga is designed to help rid the body of toxins while systematically working every part of the body to give it everything it needs to maintain optimum health.

Broga

Broga is a yoga class for men (where "it’s okay if you can’t touch your toes"). Created by Robert Sidoti, it can be described as strong, energetic,and challenging, combining core-strengthening, muscle-toning, cardio-working, stress-reducing, clarity-enhancing yoga postures with functional fitness exercises. While it's "yoga for dudes", classes are open to all.

Chair

Chair Yoga is one of the most gentle forms of yoga. It is practiced sitting on a chair, or standing and using a chair for support. The poses taught in a Chair Yoga class are often adaptions of Hatha Yoga poses. Chair Yoga classes are often taught in senior centers, and physical rehabilitation centers. Students learn many kinds of yoga postures, breathing techniques, meditation, and ways of relaxation, with the aid of a chair. This type of yoga is great for people with physical restrictions who are unable to participate in a 'traditional' yoga class, and it is a great way to increase flexibility, strength and balance.

Children's

Yoga for Children is a non-competitive and gentle form of exercise that helps promote flexibility, concentration and relaxation. Classes are usually playful and fun, lasting around 45 minutes. They teach children how to stretch their muscles, and to feel connected with their minds and bodies.

Core Strength

Core Strength classes usually offer a challenging workout specifically designed to strengthen the abdominal muscles. The benefits of these classes include greater ease in most yoga poses, improved general posture, and a stronger back. Classes can vary and are sometimes taught with an emphasis of linking movement to breath. They may also include work on the idea of core not only as a precise physical area, but also as an energetic space in the mind or the body. These classes are generally favored by people who enjoy a dynamic practice.

Corporate

Corporate yoga generally refers to yoga in the workplace. Many teachers are available to teach yoga in companies that wish to encourage their employees to consider yoga as a way to counteract stress and to improve well-being. Classes are generally tailored to specific groups.

Dru

Dru yoga is a style of yoga that works with postures, breath work, relaxation and meditation. Its series or sequences are called 'Energy Block Release' and include flowing movements, directed breathing and visualisation. They're designed for all fitness levels and all age groups.

Family

Family classes can be a fun way for the whole family to experience yoga. These classes tend to be playful and child-focused. Generally, there is little or no meditation, or complicated poses. The pace and content of the classes can vary but they usually alternate quiet and active periods, often with some relaxation at the end. Teachers may also use stories or music. Family members of all ages can join. Minimum age requirement may vary.

Flow

Flow is a general term that can be applied to many different styles of yoga and it refers to a sequence of postures that includes fluid movements and transitions. It can also refer to linking movement to breath while performing (and transitioning between) postures. Flow classes can range from gentle to athlethic, with other specific elements of focus determined by the style of yoga practiced in the class.

Forrest

Designed by Ana Forrest, Forrest Yoga helps students to connect with their physical and emotional bodies. Focusing on breath, strength, integrity, and spirit, a typical class offers a vigorous sequence of postures performed with an emphasis on core strengthening, deep breathing, and long holds in the poses. Forrest Yoga promotes healing and integrity by helping to strengthen and purify the body through the release of emotional and mental blocks, and the celebration of inner strength.

Gentle

Classes that are described as gentle generally guide practitioners through a slower and more passive sequence of postures. They often focus on connecting the breath with mindful movements that reduce tension and increase energy.ÊGentle practices warm and open the body, encourage health and quiet the mind. Gentle yoga classes are particularly suited for beginners and people working with injuries.

Hatha

Hatha is a general term that encompasses many physical styles of yoga. Hatha classes are generally gentle and slow-paced, and provide a good introduction to the basic postures and principles of yoga.

Hot

Hot Yoga is typically performed in a room heated to around 100° F/ 37° C. The heat promotes a deeper flexibility in each pose, and sweat helps the body release toxins. Hot Yoga classes generally offer a fluid practice but they may vary depending on the teaching style. Hot Yoga tends to be strenuous with the heat adding to the difficulty of the class.

Integral

Integral Yoga is a gentle practice that promotes the return to a sense of strength, health, calm and clear mind, love, and joy. Integral Yoga is accessible to all students. It uses classical yoga postures performed as a meditation, balancing physical effort and relaxation. A typical class will include postures, breathing techniques, chanting, guided relaxation, and meditation. Swami Satchidananda founded Integral Yoga after studying intensively with Swami Sivananda. His goal was to help people integrate the teachings of yoga into their daily life, in the hope to promote greater peace and tolerance.

ISHTA

Developed by Alan Finger, ISHTA Yoga (an acronym that stands for the Integrated Science of Hatha, Tantra, and Ayurveda) blends the ancient and contemporary yoga teachings of Hatha, Tantra and Ayurveda into a system that is designed to help students of all ages achieve balance and create a foundation for spiritual growth by expanding their awareness to the universal state of bliss. ISHTA Yoga caters to individual students' needs and encourages every type of student to find contentment and calm. Typical ISHTA classes are built around a theme, and consist of a flowing sequence of postures with a focus on alignment. They generally also include breathing exercises, meditation and cleansing techniques.

Iyengar

Developed by B.K.S Iyengar, this style of yoga is known for great attention to detail and focus on alignment, the precise way in which the body should be positioned to obtain the maximum benefits in each pose and avoid injury. A typical Iyengar class moves at a gentle pace and encourages students to penetrate deeper into each pose with adjustments given by the teacher. Poses (especially standing postures) are held for a longer amount of time than in other yoga styles and students are shown how to use props (such as straps, blankets, and blocks) to bring the body into alignment and to help accommodate special needs such as injuries or structural imbalances. This style of yoga is great for beginners, and it emphasizes the development of strength, flexibility, and balance. Iyengar Yoga aims to unite the body, mind, and spirit to promote well-being. Iyengar teachers complete an intense and rigorous 2-5 year training program for certification.

Jivamukti

This style of yoga was founded by David Life and Sharon Gannon, and takes inspiration from Ashtanga Yoga. It emphasizes chanting, meditation, spiritual teachings, and how to apply yogic philosophy to daily life. Jivamukti classes offer a vigorous flowing physical practice, and foster intellectual stimulation to lead to spiritual awareness. Classes often focus on a theme, and include breathing techniques, chanting, readings, and eclectic music. One of the core principles of Jivamukti Yoga is non-harming (Ahimsa) and classes often promote environmentalism, animal rights, and veganism.

Kali Natha

Founded by Ma Jaya, Kali Natha Yoga is a deeply spiritual practice that can be described as a "moving prayer", and it incorporates asana, mantra, mudra and pranayam. It's a transformative yoga that embraces Eastern and Western philosophies, enabling practitioner to experience a state of union and lasting happiness.

Kirtan

Kirtan is a Sanskrit word that means "narrating, reciting, telling, describing". Kirtan is a call-and-response style song or chant, set to music, which may also include dancing. Many performances are structured to engage the audience where they either repeat the chant, or reply to the call of the singer. A Kirtan performance includes an accompaniment of musical instruments, such as the harmonium, the tabla, flute, and cymbals. It is sometimes accompanied by story-telling and acting. Texts typically cover religious, mythological or social subjects.

Kripalu

Developed by Amrit Desai, Kripalu Yoga, sometimes described as the yoga of consciousness, is a practice with an emphasis on meditation, physical healing and spiritual transformation that will enable students to thrive in all aspects of life. Kripalu Yoga focuses on looking inward and moving at one's own pace while coordinating breath and movement to honor the wisdom of the body. Classes can vary from gentle to strenuous, and teachers will always encourage students to listen their bodies and let that be the guide to their practice. Kripalu Yoga leads the student through three stages: Stage 1 begins with the steady practice of postures (with a focus on breath, alignment, and consciousness); Stage 2 involves holding the postures longer, and deepening inner awareness; Stage 3 takes students to a meditation in motion in which movement from one posture to another arises spontaneously.

Kriya

Kriya Yoga is described by its practitioners as the ancient Yoga system revived in modern times by Mahavatar Babaji Nagaraj, as a synthesis of ancient teachings of the 18 Siddha tradition. It includes a series of techniques or 'kriyas' grouped into five phases or branches: asanas, pranayama, meditation, mantras and bhakti, which leads to an integrated development of human potential, physically, vitally, mentally, and spiritually. Paramahamsa Yogananda taught that practice of Kriya Kundalini Pranayama can accelerate the natural progression of Divine Consciousness in human beings. Babaji's Kriya Yoga is a path of self-realization in which the physical body is seen as the temple of the Divine.

Kundalini

Kundalini is an ancient form of yoga that aims to develop spiritual awareness, and to release the practitioner's full potential by building physical vitality and increasing consciousness. It focuses on the controlled release of Kundalini energy, the energy which is found at the base of the spine, with the purpose of freeing energy in the lower body and allowing it to move up through the body. The practice involves postures, with an emphasis on dynamic breathing techniques, meditation, and chanting. Kundalini is one of the more spiritual styles of yoga that goes beyond the physical poses. Kundalini sequences can be physically demanding, and are great for those looking to challenge themselves both physically and mentally.

Laughter

Laughter yoga (Hasyayoga) is a practice involving prolonged voluntary laughter. It's based on the belief that this provides the same physiological and psychological benefits as spontaneous laughter. Done in groups, laughter is initially simulated as a physical exercise while maintaining eye contact with others in the group and promoting childlike playfulness. In most cases this soon leads to real and contagious laughter!

Mantra Yoga

Mantra is yoga for the mind, and this practice consists of repeating sacred Sanskrit syllables (either silently or with voice) which trains the "ordinary" mind to connect with transcendent awareness, providing mental clarity and a sense of peace and empowerment.

Meditation

Meditation is a practice that helps to observe and sometimes discipline the fluctuations of the mind. It is generally an inward-oriented, personal practice, which individuals can do by themselves. Meditation may involve cultivating a feeling, a mode of consciousness, or an internal state. It can help practitioners to reduce stress, to increase focus in daily life, or to work on some mental, spiritual or emotional aspect of their experience.

Men's

These classes are for men new to yoga, or with a regular yoga practice. They are specifically designed to address men's challenges and goals in yoga, whether to become stronger or more flexible, increase energy, improve health, or explore deeper aspect of life.

Mom & Baby

Mom and Baby yoga classes generally accommodate babies aged six weeks to crawling. In most classes, moms will place a yoga blanket (that can be covered with a blanket from home) at the top of their yoga mat. The baby will lie on the blanket for the duration of the class, and moms are entirely free to pick up, hold, feed, or change their baby during the class. It is never a problem if the baby cries. Some classes are very gentle and may focus on playing with the babies (moms can also bring a few small toys), while others offer more exercise and less playtime. Mom and Baby classes can also provide a quiet place to meet other new mothers.

Mysore

Mysore refers to a particular way of teaching and practicing Ashtanga Yoga. Mysore classes are not led by a teacher, but instead instruction is given individually within the class setting. Students practice their own portion of the Ashtanga sequence at their own pace, and the teacher assists each student with adjustments and instructions. In Ashtanga Yoga, postures are performed in sequential order. Each posture builds from the previous, and prepares for the next one. Beginning students have a shorter practice than more advanced ones. As their practice develops, additional postures are given to the students. The Mysore style teaches yoga according to each individual's ability, and accommodates all levels.

Naam

Naam Yoga is a merging of techniques by teacher Dr Levry. It is a practice that is very relevant to modern life's problems through its unique merging of the precise science of breath, sound and vocal vibration, rhythm, yogic movement and mudra therapy (hand postures), with the practical application and wisdom of Universal Kabbalah (the laws of nature) for total well-being: physical, mental, emotional and energetic.

Nude

Naked yoga is the practice of yoga without clothes. While many people practice naked yoga at home, there are a growing number of participants in group classes.

Odaka

Odaka Yoga founded by Roberto Milletti and Francesca Cassia. It provides a full-spectrum approach to embodying the flow of life with awareness, joy and empowerment. Odaka Yoga unfolds through yoga sequences and through the martial arts flow of inner energy, and the Zen spirit of not stilling the mind. It transforms the practice into a process where no interruption occurs between one pose and the another. This aims to dissolve physical, mental and emotional tensions and contractions, while soothing the mind with immediate action and creating space for a new balance and inner strength.

Paddleboard

Paddle Board Yoga is hatha yoga and vinyasa yoga asanas combined with paddle surfing (SUP). Practitioners may start off practicing on the beach sand or in a swimming pool to gain the strength and flexibility required to maintain the balance and postures on moving water such as the ocean or a lake. In the short time it has been in existence, Paddleboard or SUP Yoga has grown to become quite popular.

Phoenix Rising

Phoenix Rising Yoga Therapy was founded by Michael Lee in 1986 and takes a holistic, client-centered approach to yoga for therapy. It emphazises the mental, emotional, and even spiritual aspects of healing over the purely physical nature of health issues.

Power

Power Yoga is a general term used to describe classes that are often based on the flowing and dynamic style of Ashtanga Yoga, but that don't necessarily follow the same set series of poses. Classes can vary depending on the teacher, but they generally offer a vigorous workout that develops strength and flexibility while keeping students moving. Power Yoga classes often target different muscle groups; they can be as challenging for the mind as they are for the body. Power Yoga generally appeals to people who enjoy exercise, and prefer a minimal amount of meditation and chanting.

Pranayama

Pranayama is the formal practice of controlling the breath, and describes of series of exercises especially intended to keep the body in vibrant health, and to help yogis in the meditation practice. Pranayama comes from the the words Prana - "life force", and Yama - "control".

Prenatal

Prenatal classes are designed for women who are pregnant, whether they have an ongoing yoga practice, or are brand new to yoga and wish to discover the benefits that yoga can bring all the way to delivery. Prenatal yoga can bring calm, focus, flexibility, and strength. These classes are generally appropriate for all stages of pregnancy.

Purna

Founded by Aadil and Mirra Palkhivala, Purna Yoga incorporates the same alignment principles taught in Iyengar Yoga with meditation, breathing techniques, philosophy, and nutrition. Purna Yoga aims to unite the body and mind with the spirit, and focuses on connecting students with their heart center.

Restorative

Restorative Yoga helps to open the body through passive stretching so that practitioners can access a deep conscious relaxation. A typical class will include several floor poses held passively for a longer amount of time than in other styles of yoga, with the support of blocks, bolsters and blankets to eliminate any strain on the body. The final relaxation is usually held for 20 minutes to allow complete rest. Restorative Yoga offers many benefits that can help with ailments such as stress, chronic pain, migraines and insomnia. This type of yoga is accessible and beneficial to all ages and fitness levels.

Rocket Yoga

Rocket Yoga is a very dynamic, flowing form of yoga, rooted in the Ashtanga/Vinyasa styles. Similar to power yoga, but more fast-paced ― a class usually involves 142 poses in 75 minutes.

Satyananda

Satyananda Yoga, also referred to as the Yoga of the Head (intellect), Heart (compassion) and Hands (action), aims to enable the development of human potential, and the achievement of inner awareness. Satyananda Yoga is suited to anyone looking for an integrated approach to their physical, mental, and spiritual development. Classes are balanced between postures, breathing techniques and meditation practices. Satyananda Yoga is suitable for people of all ages and physical abilities.

Scaravelli

Developed by Vanda Scaravelli, Scaravelli Yoga is a gentle style of yoga, designed to work with the natural movements of the body in relation to gravity. Scaravelli Yoga combines movement, breath, and meditation to naturally unfold outwards. Typical Scaravelli classes are small and friendly, providing a relaxed atmosphere that allows students to progress comfortably, and develop their own home practice. Students are encouraged to be still, and follow the body's guidance. Emphasis is placed on poses for the spine, and movements are effortless and light. This style is suited for those looking for a gentle and inward-focused practice.

Senior

Yoga classes for Seniors are designed so that seniors can safely participate at their level of comfort. They help address the health challenges that may come with age, and help increase the flexibility and well-being of practitioners. These classes are generally gentle and slow-paced.

Shadow

Developed by Zhander Remete, Shadow yoga focuses on awakening the inner core of the body and of the self. The emphasis in beginning Shadow Yoga is on understanding the energetic principles, applied through of core locks and proper breathing technique. Shadow Yoga is popular with practitioners who are interested in experiencing a practice that goes beyond alignment and flow, and exploring core body energy and breath.

Shakti Naam

Created by Master Dr. Levry, Shakti Naam Yoga is a practice that effects the energetic body, which in turn, sustains the physical body. It works to remove all blockages the energy channels, and results in a beautiful, healthy, strong, energetic body. It keeps stress and disease away, and removes anxiety and depression. The classes involves standing postures with powerful breath work for detoxification, vitality and strength.

Sivananda

Developed by Vishnu-devananda this stye of yoga is designed to help raise the practitioner's consciousness. Sivananda Yoga is based on five principles: proper exercise, proper breathing, proper relaxation, proper diet (vegetarian), positive thinking and meditation. Classes typically focus on 12 core poses and include chanting, breathing, mediation, and corpse pose. Sivananda classes are generally relatively gentle and suitable for all ages and levels of fitness.

Special Needs

As an ancient practice that has many benefits for the mind, the body and the spirit, yoga can be beneficial for both adults and children with special needs. Classes are frequently taught individually or in small groups, and the specifics should always be discussed with teachers beforehand.

Svaroopa

Developed by Rama Berch, Svaroopa is a gentle, consciousness-oriented style of yoga that aims to promote healing and transformation. It focuses on releasing the muscles around the spine by beginning at the tailbone and progressing through each spinal area. Svaroopa Yoga classes typically include floor work with the use of props (such as blocks, straps, and pillows), and with the teacher giving adjustments. This a very accessible style of yoga, often beginning in poses that are comfortable and healing for the spine. Classes sometimes last up to two hours, and always begin and end with a relaxation.

SwáSthya

Codified by Master DeRose in Brazil, SwáSthya Yôga is the most popular yoga style in Brazil and Argentina. It strictly follows an ancient yoga tradition with roots in Tantra and Samkhya yoga. Although it's highly acrobatic and explores the limits of strength, balance and flexibility, it's more than just a workout: meditation and breath control are central components of the practice. It also fully covers the philosophy of yoga, but without mystical or spiritual connotation. FYI: to become an instructor of this style takes 12 years!

Tantra

Tantra is an inter-religious spiritual movement that arose in medieval India in the fifth century CE, where practitioners invoke the sacred in everything and attempt to connect to the spiritual essence of the universe with everyday experiences. While other spiritual traditions commonly teach that desire for material pleasures and spiritual aspirations are mutually exclusive, Tantra is different: it takes worldly desires into account. Thus, for some people, "Tantra" has become a synonym for "spiritual sex", where love-making is viewed as a sacred act which is capable of elevating its participants to a more sublime spiritual plane.

Thai Yoga Massage

A system of massage and manipulation developed in Thailand, and influenced by the traditional medicine systems of India, China, and Southeast Asia, as well as by yoga. Developed more than 2,500 years ago in India, it's related to yoga because the therapist uses his or her hands, knees, legs, and feet to move you into a series of yoga-like stretches. Many people say Thai yoga massage is like doing yoga without any work.

TriYoga

TriYoga is a hatha yoga method with an emphasis on asanas, breathing, and mudra (focus). This yoga style consists of 7 levels, and within each level, students increase their knowledge of posture and flow, as well as comprehensively building strength, flexibility, endurance and breath control. Students of all levels practice together, modifying sequences to their own abilities. The origin and continued development of TriYoga is guided by Kali Ray.

Vijñāna

Vijñāna Yoga was founded in 2003 by Orit Sen-Gupta. This type of yoga stems from the yogic tradition of northern India, as taught by Sri Krishnamacharya. The four main practices of Vijñāna Yoga are finding true alignment in asana practice, extensive practice of pranayama, the practice of meditation, and the study of yogic texts. The term vijñāna means "understanding from inside".

Viniyoga

Viniyoga is a gentle and fluid form of yoga that emphasizes the coordination of breath and movement. The flowing Viniyoga sequence is similar to the series practiced in Ashtanga Yoga, but it is performed at a much slower pace. Classes can vary in length and content, and sequences are tailored to students' needs and physical condition. Viniyoga enables students to begin the process of self-discovery and individual transformation. Students are taught how to use postures, breathing techniques, chanting, and meditation in an individual practice. Viniyoga places less stress on the joints, and is very accesible to beginners.

Vinyasa

Vinyasa is a general term that means 'to move with the breath', and it is used to describe different types of classes. Some of the most popular styles of yoga, such as Ashtanga and Power Yoga, are taught in vinyasa style Ð meaning the series of postures flows with the breath. Vinyasa Flow classes generally offer a more varied sequence than Ashtanga classes. They tend to be vigorous classes and generally start with a series of poses called Sun Salutations to warm up the body. Vinyasa Flow classes are mostly slower-paced than Power Yoga classes, and more vigorous than Iyengar classes. Vinyasa Flow Yoga builds strength, flexibility, concentration and balance.

Women's

Yoga for Women are classes that offer sequences specifically tailored to female practitioners whether new to yoga, or with a regular yoga practice. They are designed to support a healthy practice for women in all stages of their development. These classes show how a balanced yoga practice can help women deal with the different stages of their cycle, and the symptoms associated with hormonal changes. They generally help women build an awareness of their body and mind, and often guide women through sequences that balance strength with the feminine.

Yantra Yoga

One of the oldest recorded systems of yoga in the world, Yantra Yoga uses a sequence that consists of seven phases of movement, connected with seven phases of breathing. Yantra Yoga is connected with the essence of the Dzogchen Teachings, although practitioners do not need to follow a particular spiritual path. Many positions used in Yantra Yoga are similar to those of Hatha Yoga, but the way to assume and apply them differs significantly. The system of Yantra Yoga contains a wide range of movements that can be practiced by everyone.

Yin

Yin Yoga aims to help move the flow of energy in the body, and to maintain mobility in the deep connective tissue. It combines the use of passive and active postures, breathing techniques, and meditation. Classes typically offer a physically passive practice, and some poses can be help to up to 5 minutes. Props (such as blocks, straps, bolsters, and pillows) can be used to help support the practice. Many of the poses focus on the hips and the lower back, as these areas of the body require extra care and attention. Yin Yoga postures strengthen the body, enabling practitioners to sit for long periods of time during meditation.

Yoga Nidra

Literally: "yogic sleep," practitioners lie on mat and enter a state of relaxed awareness, while being guided by a teacher's voice. Focus on breath, while becoming aware of and releasing deeply held tensions.

Yoga Therapy

Yoga Therapy was developed by T. Krisjnamacharya, TKV Desikachar, and BKS Iyengar. Facilitated by a teacher, yoga therapy allows the practitioner to go within him or herself and find elements that need correction. Yoga therapy is used for the purpose of introspection, exercise, healing, and relaxation. When used therapeutically, yoga can affect change from within with minimal effort. The concentration that is required with yoga is mastered over time. The transformation that takes place through yoga therapy affects the body, mind, and spirit in a profound and dynamic way.

Yoga Tune Up

'Yoga Tune Up' was created by Jill Miller, it utilizes myofascial release, breath, anatomy, yoga and conscious corrective exercise to help practitioners relieve pain, improve posture and enhance performance so they can live better in their bodies. It's an anatomy-based therapeutic method that effectively teaches practitioners about their bodies so they can stay pain and injury free.

Yogalates

Yogalates combines the best of Yoga and Pilates — fusing functional applied anatomy and physiology to holistic stability encompassing all of the musculo skeletal body. Classes integrate the core strengthening and alignment principles of Pilates with the practice of hatha yoga.