fbpx ;

Decipher the Different Styles of Yoga With This Yoga Dictionary

Yoga-dict-585There are a bunch of different kinds of yogaout there. And while we’ve tried most of them in our yoga workout DVD reviews, we wouldn’t exactly call ourselves experts when it comes to different styles of yoga. So for today’s post, we’ve partnered up with the new healthy green living site Eco18 for the 411 on different yoga styles in this yoga dictionary!

A Yoga Dictionary From Eco18

I get it. When you’re beginning a yoga practice, all of these foreign-sounding words placed in front of level 1, 2, 3 have no meaning. As succinctly as possible, I’m going to give you a little intro to the most popular styles of yoga and my feeling of the kind of yogi they would appeal to.

Anusara

What is it? Anusara means “Flowing with Grace.” It focuses on flowing movement with attention to alignment, particularly opening the heart. There is a great deal of attention paid to both the physical experience as well as the energetic one. Expect your teachers to intertwine storytelling and mind/body thinking and often a theme expressed throughout the class.

Who’s it for? For people who enjoy not only understanding the precise way to set up a pose but who also really want something meaningful out of their class—“Why am I here?” and “What is the meaning of it?” All kinds of people will enjoy Anusara’s unique blend of spirit and movement.

Well-known teachers: John Friend, Elena Brower, Desiree Rumbaugh

Ashtanga

What is it? Ashtanga is considered very athletic and challenging. Traditionally, students are taught a series of movements and then practice them at their own pace while an instructor walks the room and gives each person suggestions and adjustments. The principle behind this style is to move without interruption so that you can ultimately be unattached to whatever experience arises. This hopefully spills over into life off the yoga mat as well.

Who’s it for? Since Ashtanga is known to be more challenging, try it if you’re athletic and interested in developing a more intense practice.

Well-known teachers: K. Pattahbi Jois and his grandson R. Sharath

FTC disclosure: We often receive products from companies to review. All thoughts and opinions are always entirely our own. Unless otherwise stated, we have received no compensation for our review and the content is purely editorial. Affiliate links may be included. If you purchase something through one of those links we may receive a small commission. Thanks for your support!

Comments

0 Comments

    Comments are closed.