Shake Up Your Yoga Routine: 7 Styles You’ve Got to Try!
Yoga is a beautiful practice that encourages self-awareness, balance, and mindfulness. If you’ve been practicing for a while, you’ve probably found a style and routine that you’re comfortable with. Maybe you have a favorite teacher, a go-to class, or a specific style of yoga that feels like home. There’s nothing wrong with that—routine and familiarity have their place, and they’re part of what makes yoga such a grounding practice.
But here's a thought: When was the last time you tried something new on the mat? When did you step out of your comfort zone and explore a different style or instructor? If it’s been a while, it might be time to shake things up and see what else the world of yoga has to offer. Exploring different styles can be not only fun, but it can also deepen your practice in ways you might not expect.
Why Try Something New?
As humans, we tend to stick to what we know. It's easy to gravitate toward the same teacher, the same class time, and the same routine. We find comfort in the predictability of it all. But yoga is all about growth, both on and off the mat. By venturing outside of your usual routine, you open yourself up to new challenges, fresh perspectives, and maybe even a few "aha!" moments.
If you're looking to push yourself a little further or simply add a bit of variety to your yoga journey, I encourage you to try something different. Maybe it’s as simple as attending a class with a new instructor, or perhaps you're ready to dive into an entirely new style of yoga. There’s a whole world of yoga waiting for you to explore—so why not give it a go?
7 Yoga Styles to Try
Ready to break free from your usual routine? Here are seven unique styles of yoga you can explore, each offering its own benefits:
Kundalini Yoga
Kundalini yoga blends physical postures with deep spiritual practices, including chanting, singing, and meditation. If you’re looking for an experience that goes beyond the physical and taps into your inner energy, Kundalini might just be what you need.Vinyasa Yoga
Vinyasa is all about movement and flow. If you're the type who loves to move with your breath and challenge your body, Vinyasa offers a dynamic, fast-paced practice that keeps you on your toes. Less stillness, more action!Hatha Yoga
If you prefer a gentler pace but still want to build strength and flexibility, Hatha yoga offers a balanced approach. Hatha is perfect for beginners or anyone seeking a calmer practice that allows time to hold each pose with focus and intention.Ashtanga Yoga
Ashtanga is a rigorous, physically demanding style of yoga that follows a set sequence of postures. If you enjoy structure and a bit of routine, Ashtanga’s steady flow will help you develop strength, flexibility, and mental discipline.Yin Yoga
Yin yoga is all about slowing down and holding poses for an extended period, allowing the body to release tension and soften deeper tissues. If you’re in need of deep relaxation and a slow stretch, Yin might be just the antidote to your busy lifestyle.Iyengar Yoga
For those who enjoy precise instruction and alignment, Iyengar yoga is a detailed and methodical practice that focuses on correct positioning of the body. It’s great for anyone with physical limitations or those looking for a more classical, therapeutic approach to yoga.Bikram Yoga (Hot Yoga)
Bikram yoga is practiced in a heated room and follows a specific sequence of 26 poses. The heat encourages deep sweating, helping to detoxify the body while you work through the physical postures. If you enjoy a challenge and love the heat, Bikram can push your physical and mental limits.
The Benefits of Trying New Styles
Exploring new yoga styles offers a variety of benefits, including:
Physical Challenge: You’ll engage different muscle groups, improve flexibility, and challenge your body in new ways.
Mental Growth: Stepping out of your comfort zone allows you to overcome fears and break through mental barriers.
Variety & Fun: New styles keep your practice fresh and exciting, preventing boredom from setting in.
Deepened Connection: Exploring different aspects of yoga—whether it’s breath work, meditation, or alignment—can help you connect with yourself on a deeper level.
Ready to Give It a Try?
Yoga is a lifelong journey, and part of the beauty of it lies in the endless opportunities for growth and exploration. If you're feeling stuck in a routine, take a leap of faith and try something new. Whether it’s a different teacher, a new style, or even a new studio, stepping out of your comfort zone can lead to surprising discoveries.
So, what are you waiting for? Roll out your mat, open your mind, and embrace the adventure of exploring new styles of yoga. Who knows? You might just find your next favorite practice!
