Types of yoga:
1. Anusara (beginners)
Think of this as beginner’s yoga. Classes tend to be very welcoming and instructors let everyone go at their own pace. Anusara strikes a balance between a physical workout and self-reflection.
2. Ashtanga (power/cardio)
This is a fast-paced cardio, “power” workout. Ashtanga involves cycling quickly through multiple series of poses and intense disciplined breathing, which you better have memorized if you want to keep up.
3. Bikram (hot yoga)
Time to break a sweat — yoga in a sauna is not for the faint of heart. Temperatures over 40 C and an ideal humidity of 40 per cent help loosen muscles and stimulate weight loss, but be sure to bring lots of water and take it slow.
4. Iyengar (“furniture” yoga)
This yoga involves the use of props like wooden blocks, straps, harnesses and cushions. It’s not all that fast-paced, but instructors are very focused on proper form and alignment.
5. Jivamukti (traditional)
If you’re drawn to the image of yoga mats on a calm beach at dawn — this type yoga is for you. Jivamukti goes beyond exercise with an emphasis on lifestyle. In the search of “liberation while living,” this style involves a variety of poses, ancient scriptures, chanting, music, spirituality and vegetarianism.
6. Restorative
The ideal yoga for exam times — no stress, slow pace, and no pressure. The emphasis here is on deep relaxation, not cardio or flexibility. There are only a few poses, many involve laying down, and sometimes poses are held for up to 20 minutes. This type of yoga lets you rest your mind and your body.
