Is There a “Better Style or Type of Yoga?”

As a yoga teacher and practitioner who has explored different yoga styles throughout my journey, I’ve found that different styles have suited me better at various stages of my practice and life. I can definitely say there is no universally “better” yoga style.

One of the things I love about yoga and teaching it is how adaptable it is to suit different needs and goals. It’s truly amazing to have one practice with so many variations and options to explore. As a private yoga instructor, I’m constantly learning from different styles so I can better serve the individual needs of my students. And as a practitioner, it’s great to have different types of practices that meet the needs of my body and mind on different days and at different moments in my life.

If you’re wondering whether there’s one yoga style you should commit to, the first thing I’d tell you is: you don’t have to choose just one. But it’s also perfectly okay if a specific style suits your needs better than others.

Here are a few things to consider:

1. Think about your needs and goals for your yoga practice.Why are you pursuing yoga in the first place? Having clarity about what you want to focus on can help you determine which type of yoga might be best for you.

2. Try as many styles as you need to determine which one suits you best.Explore the range of yoga styles, from Ashtanga and Power Yoga to Yin and Restorative Yoga. There’s a wide variety to choose from.

3. Assess your current physical condition.Some styles, like Ashtanga or Vinyasa, can be more physically demanding, while others, like Yin or Restorative, are gentler on the body. Consider any injuries or limitations you might have.

4. Read and learn about the different styles.The more you learn and understand the differences between each style, the easier it will be to find what resonates with you.

5. Be open to changing and evolving as your practice does.Your needs may shift over time, and your practice can, too. It’s okay to change styles as your goals or life circumstances change.

6. Consider incorporating different styles into your practice to accommodate your needs on different days.Your body and mind require different things at different times. For example, on days when you’re feeling low on energy, a calming practice like Yin Yoga might be more supportive, while on days when you feel more active, a dynamic practice like Vinyasa or Power Yoga could be just what you need.

   
   

For me, the most important thing has been finding a deep connection with yoga, no matter the style. What truly matters is that you discover a practice that feels nurturing and encouraging for you. So, let yourself explore and embrace whatever styles resonate with your own journey.