The Yogic Practices and Their Life-Changing Potential

1. Vinyasa Yoga

Vinyasa yoga, often known as “flow yoga,” is a more dynamic style emphasising fluid movement linked with the breath. It’s roots are derived from Ashtanga Yoga, but Vinyasa has developed into its own unique practice, gaining widespread popularity in the West during the late 20th century. The term “vinyasa” means “to place in a special way,” highlighting the continuous, smooth flow of poses. In Vinyasa flow, each posture transitions seamlessly into the next, guided by the breath. This practice is known for its creativity and flexibility, with no set sequence, allowing for variations that suit the practitioner’s energy. Vinyasa yoga is excellent for building strength, flexibility, and cardiovascular endurance. It requires concentration and breath awareness, which creates a moving meditation that activates both the body and mind. Vinyasa is typically recommended for those seeking a physically challenging practice, and it is best performed in the morning or midday when energy levels are higher. It is a beautiful place to start your yoga practice.

2. Hatha Yoga

Hatha yoga is a classical style of yoga that focuses on balancing the body and mind through basic postures and breath control. It’s history dates back to the 15th century when Hatha was developed as a preparatory practice for meditation.  The word “Hatha” translates to “force” and also symbolizes the union of opposites—such as the sun (ha) and the moon (tha)—representing balance in the body. Hatha practices are slower-paced than Vinyasa, with more deliberate movements emphasizing proper alignment. This gives the individual more time to welcome their mind into the posture and gain an awareness over their breath and body sensations. This is also ideal for beginnings who are looking for a gentle, slower entrance to yoga. It helps improve flexibility, body awareness, and mental clarity. It can be practiced in the morning or evening to connect with the body in a slower, more deliberate way.

3. Yoga Nidra

Yoga Nidra, or “yogic sleep,” is a practice of deep relaxation that involves guided meditation rather than physical movement. Although not a traditional asana-based yoga practice, Yoga Nidra has its roots in ancient tantric teachings and has gained popularity in modern times for its stress-relieving benefits. In Yoga Nidra, practitioners lie in Savasana ****(corpse pose) and are guided through instructions focusing on body awareness, breath control, and visualization. The goal is to bring the practitioner into a state between wakefulness and sleep. Yoga Nidra helps relieve tension, stress, anxiety, and insomnia, making it a valuable tool for mental health and well-being. It can be practised at any time of day, but it is especially effective before bedtime to promote deep sleep.

4. Ashtanga Yoga

Ashtanga yoga is a structured, disciplined style of yoga that follows a specific sequence of postures. Rooted in the teachings of Sri K. Pattabhi Jois, Ashtanga yoga dates back to the 20th century but has ancient origins in the Yoga Korunta text. The term “Ashtanga” translates to “eight limbs,” referencing the eightfold path described in the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali, which includes ethical principles, meditation, and asana practice. Ashtanga yoga is known for its vigorous, physically demanding practice that builds strength, flexibility, and stamina. Unlike Vinyasa, which offers varied sequences, Ashtanga follows a set series of postures, allowing practitioners to develop mastery and deepen their focus over time. Central to Ashtanga are three key elements: Ujjayi breath (a type of controlled breathing), drishti (focused gaze), and bandhas (energy locks) to direct the flow of energy within the body. Ashtanga yoga is ideal for those who appreciate a disciplined, structured approach to yoga, and it is traditionally practised in the early morning on an empty stomach, aligning with the body’s natural rhythms and preparing practitioners for the day ahead.

5. Yin Yoga

Yin Yoga is a modern practice that offers a slow, meditative approach to stretching and relaxation. Developed in the late 1970s by martial artist Paulie Zink, Yin Yoga integrates elements of Taoist philosophy and traditional Chinese medicine, focusing on stretching the deeper connective tissues like fascia, ligaments, and tendons. Yin Yoga is practised through passive poses that are held for extended periods of time—usually between 3 to 5 minutes or longer—allowing practitioners to release tension and increase joint mobility. Unlike more vigorous forms of yoga that target muscle strength and flexibility, Yin Yoga targets the body’s deeper tissues and enhances the flow of energy (or chi) through the body’s meridian system. This practice fosters introspection, stillness, and mindfulness, making it a perfect complement to more active or “yang” practices like Vinyasa or Ashtanga. Yin Yoga is best when you want to release the day and let the body come into stillness. It is especially beneficial in the evening or before bedtime.