By now you’ve probably heard about all of the physical and mental benefits of yoga and you may have decided that the time has come to try a class. So, you’re checking out the schedule at your local studio and you’re inundated with classes that go by names such as “Vinyasa” and “Iyengar.”
How do you choose the yoga style that’s right for you? Start with what it is you want to get out of a yoga practice-fitness, strength, stress reduction? Then think about how you learn and move best. Are you slow and methodical, more athletic, or expressive?
Here’s a little cheat sheet to help you know where to start and what style of yoga is most appropriate for you. We’ve given each yoga type a number of sticky mats to rate its intensity from low to high.
Restorative
The focus here is relaxation. If you’re looking to de-stress, or you’re just simply not up for a fast-paced yoga class, this is the place for you.
Sticky Mats: Props are used in this class to obtain maximum relaxation. This is a terrific class to incorporate into your yoga practice to relax, renew, and restore.
Rating: 2
Hatha
This class blends many forms of yoga and allows students to alleviate stress and tension.
Sticky Mats: This is a terrific class to use as an introduction to yoga. You’ll get to try multiple styles of yoga, and students are encouraged to move at their own pace.
Rating: 3
Anusara
While these classes also focus on alignment and use of props, they integrate more personal creativity and lightheartedness into the practice. Students are encouraged to express themselves and have fun.
Sticky Mats: The use of props makes these classes accessible to many people and the fun, uplifting style is apparent in heart opening and back-bending poses.
Rating: 4
Iyengar
This is a class focused on alignment. Props such as blankets, blocks, and straps are utilized to help students move perfectly into poses. This is a great place to start if you’re interested in learning the rudiments of poses.
Sticky Mats: If you want to build a solid foundation for your practice or you enjoy perfecting poses, then this is the class for you.
Rating: 5
