The word “yoga” comes from Sanskrit and means “to unite,” symbolizing the goal of connecting body, mind and awareness. There are many different types of yoga, each with its own rhythm, intensity and focus. Some types of yoga are fast-paced and energizing, while others are slow and deeply restorative. Some emphasize strength and balance, while others focus on flexibility, mindfulness or stillness. All types of yoga incorporate physical postures (Asanas), breathing techniques (Pranayama), and meditation (Dhyana).

Elizabeth Potarf, a Castle Rock resident and a 500-hour certified yoga instructor for the past 10 years, stated, “Yoga is a tool, a modality that when done regularly, helps you feel better physically, mentally and spiritually. There are a multitude of benefits of a regular yoga practice, including increased strength, flexibility, balance and coordination. A regular yoga practice leads to lower cortisol, stress hormones and many find it very healing.”

Whether you are new to the practice or looking to try something new, understanding what sets each style apart can help you choose which style interests you.

Key Types of Yoga:

Ashtanga: rigorous, structured style of yoga that follows a specific, consistent sequence of poses, focusing on stamina and strength.

Iyengar: emphasizes precision, alignment and detailed technique; props such as blocks, belts and chairs help hold poses correctly.

Hot: performed in a heated, humid room to encourage sweating and deep stretching.

Yin: a slow-paced, meditative style where seated or lying poses are held for long periods (three to five+ minutes) to target deep connective tissues.

Restorative: a deep relaxation and healing type, using props to support the body completely in effortless, gentle poses.

Hatha: an ideal beginner style, focusing on slower-paced foundational poses and breathing techniques, a good introduction to basic yoga poses.

Vinyasa/Flow: a dynamic style that links movement with breath, creating a continuous “flow” from one pose to the next, like a dance. It is often faster-paced and creative.

Power: an athletic, fitness-based Vinyasa style aimed at building strength, endurance and heat.

Kundalini: combines postures, specific breathing techniques, mantras and meditation to awaken energy at the base of the spine.

Aerial: utilizes a suspended hammock or sling to support the body, allowing for inversion poses and aerial acrobatics.

A few examples of modern adaptations of yoga are stand-up paddle board yoga and goat yoga, where yoga is practiced with goats roaming around.

Search for yoga apps such as Alo Moves and Down Dog to practice on your own, or find the classes Elizabeth teaches weekly in Castle Pines and Highlands Ranch at rejoiceyoga.net.

Elizabeth also suggests looking for free yoga in the park classes in the surrounding areas over the summer. For a small fee, Yoga on the Rocks at Red Rocks usually begins in May and books up quickly. Visit redrocksonline.com/yoga/.

 

By Lisa Nicklanovich; photos courtesy of Elizabeth Potarf