Yoga styles
Ashtanga Yoga
A system of yoga popularised by K. Pattabhi Jois. The order of asanas is predefined. A practice will comprise four main parts: an "opening sequence," one of the six main "series", a back-bending sequence, and a set of inverted asanas, referred to as the "happy ending" or "finishing sequence." Practice ends with savasana. The opening sequence begins with 10 Sun Salutations and then several standing asanas.
Hatha Yoga
A general term for what might be termed ‘traditional yoga’. Individual teachers will have their own particular style of teaching which may range from the more challenging to the more gentle. A hatha yoga class will generally commence with a short period of relaxation or focusing, followed by warm up stretches and then various postures (asanas). The class is likely to close with some breathing exercises (pranayama) before a final relaxation and or meditation.
Iyengar Yoga
is a method developed by Yogacharya Sri B.K.S Iyengar, which focuses on the precise alignment of the body, working deeply and with awareness in each asana (posture), to gain the maximum benefit to your flexibility, strength and wellbeing. Sometimes blocks, cork bricks, belts, yoga chairs or wall ropes may be used to help students practice asanas safely and in a way that is beneficial to each individual (whatever their age, strength or level of flexibility). Through Iyengar Yoga practitioners aim to unite the body, mind and spirit, and attain physical and mental well-being. This is a classical form of yoga, rooted deeply in Yoga Philosophy and teachings of Patanjali.
Restorative Yoga
The restorative practice differs from other forms of introspective yoga systems, in that the poses are generally supine and supported by props, encouraging a safe letting go. With a deep release in the physical body, the mind also has the opportunity to undo, and the outcome is a relaxed, grounded and more centered state of being. These classes may also incorporate some meditation and breathing practices. They are suitable both for a person with an active asana practice to reach the more subtle layers which can then illuminate an active practice. And also for those who are challenged by an active practice, when the restorative practice can act therapeutically and start to open and heal the body in a way which may enable more active movement.
Vinyasa flow
Vinyasa Yoga is a style of Hatha Yoga where each of the postures (asanas) is joined together by a specific intelligent movement (Vinyasa). Thus the way of getting into and out of each posture becomes as important as the posture itself and one posture flows into another throughout the class. The flowing asana sequences (Vinyasa Krama) are ever changing depending on the focus of the class. Teachers trained in Vinyasa Yoga are precise and pay attention to each student's ability. Each session ends with 5-10 minutes relaxation.