So many styles of yoga, so little time.

Now that we've covered some of the styles of yoga available, I bet you are excited to get going, but I'm guessing you also have questions. One of the most frequent questions I get from new students is what type of yoga should I start with. The answer, as with many answers, is that it depends.

I'll start here with a relatively embarrassing story about my first yoga class. I got my new (cheap from target) mat and my water bottle and I joined my friend for a warm Vinyasa class. This class was taught by an amazing instructor who tends to be very challenging and flow very quickly. About 20 minutes into the class I was sliding around on my mat, there were multiple times that I nearly fell over and I knew nothing about doing "a vinyasa" so I pretty much belly flopped every time we did one (no laughing). I gave it my all and during savasana I was exhausted and my mind was bouncing around, but I felt looser, I felt calmer, and I felt more "me". I was hooked, though I did look for slower paced classes to learn! I learned very quickly I don't like hot classes and I like slower paced, flowing classes. When you choose which type of class you want to attend, consider the following things: -What do you want out of it, do you want something to energize you or do you want something to help you unwind? If you want energizing, you may want a vinyasa class or even a power yoga class. If you want calming, maybe lean towards yin or restorative. -What time of day is it? If it is morning, you probably don't want a class that will get you ready for bed and relax you too much, you may want something a bit faster paced to get you going; obviously, if it is late in the day that may be reversed. -Do you like consistent routines or do you like varying things? Asthanga or Bikrim yoga offer yogis the same sequences in each class, this is a great way to learn a sequence and not have to think each class what a new pose may do to you. On the other hand, if you like it varied, yin, vinyasa, power, etc. are all designed by the teacher. -What is your current state of mind? Sometimes we need to calm ourselves down, other times we need to "sweat it out", pick your class according to your needs. There are many other factors to consider, these are a good place to start. Also, now that your needs and desires will change day to day, as well as evolve over time. Initially when I started yogi I was initially bothered by the quiet and calm of savasana at the end of class, in fact at times I was extremely uncomfortable. Now I crave that and I look for slower paced classes and I love yin! People change and luckily there are enough types of classes to suit your need on any given day. -Desk Dwelling Yogi