Which Kind of Yoga is Right for You?
By Genevieve Cunningham
In young adulthood, you’ll probably find a lot of people who claim to like yoga. While many of these people are telling the truth and love the practice, it’s possible that a great many of them love the idea of yoga, but not necessarily the practice itself. This was me. I loved yoga … except for every time I went to class. During class, I felt bored and frustrated. Luckily, a very wise yoga soul noticed the struggle and introduced me to the idea that maybe this particular yoga wasn’t for me. After a few classes with different yoga philosophies, I finally found that I really did love yoga … just a different one than the one I thought. If this is you, don’t give up hope. Sometimes loving yoga is all about finding what works for you. To help you on your journey, take a look at this quick and easy guide to finding your inner yogi.
What Are You Looking For?
Before you begin your search for the perfect yoga class, ask yourself a few questions:
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What do I want out of my practice?
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How much movement do I need?
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Do I want diversity or uniformity?
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How hard do I want to work?
The answer to these questions can greatly affect which kind of yoga you’ll enjoy and benefit from most. Be brutally honest with yourself, and you’ll find greater success in your hunt for the perfect practice.
Some Available Options
There are so many kinds of yoga, it would be impossible to name them all here. But, a few of the more popular options that many people find helpful in their lives include:
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Hatha Yoga - This is a very common form of yoga found in most gyms across the country. This practice focuses on the physical aspect of holding various poses. The flow of the class may be different each time, so those looking for diversity or a solely physical workout may find Hatha a good choice.
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Ashtanga Yoga - This practice is a little harder to find in some areas, as it’s very specific in its teachings. Every single class will follow the same sequence of poses as well as the same breathing pattern. Breath and movement are always synced. But with that said, Ashtanga allows you to deepen your practice at your own pace, only progressing when you’re ready. If you need a cross between physical and mental vigor, as well as a practice that is more uniform, Ashtanga may be for you.
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Bikram Yoga - This yoga is hardcore. This is done in over 100-degree heat. It allows you to stretch more deeply, as your muscles are incredibly limber in this state. This is a test of both body and mind, so if you’re looking to really test your limits, this could work for you.
The bottom line when trying to find the perfect yoga class is to be open, honest, and true to yourself. If you don’t like one form, try another. With some patience and research, you may find the perfect form of yoga to bring into your life and keep you feeling centered, fresh, and ready for all that life throws your direction.
To learn more about your health and wellness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic.
