Yoga styles for every personality

With so many forms of yoga to choose from, taking your pick of the most suitable one is a tough task. 

We make things easier for you by breaking them down according to their appeal

For fitness seekers 

Style: Power yoga

This brisk style doesn't have a fixed form like the more traditional yoga practices and focusses more on strength and flexibility. Power yoga is also called gym yoga, and was developed by Beryl Bender Birch and Bryan Kest from the US, who've studied under K Pattabhi Jois. Since fitness is the goal, it is ideal for health freaks who don't want to indulge in chanting or meditation.

For beginners

Style: Hatha yoga

This simple, slow-paced style is idea for beginners to yoga. The focus is more on breathing and meditation than on the stretches since complete relaxation is the objective. The word Hatha means wilful or forceful and can also be translated into sun (ha) and moon (tha).

For lovers of challenge

Style: Aerial yoga

If you love challenging workouts and are looking for serious flexibility, this one's for you. Aerial yoga uses a hammock (silky fabric) to support you above the ground while achieving an asana. You'll be dangling in the air with the support of a hammock and working against the gravitational force. Think of it as a combination of yoga, dance, Pilates and calisthenics.

For young couples

Style: Acroyoga

This intimate style of yoga requires two people and is great for couples to reconnect with each other, emotionally and physically. Usually, one person is resting on his back and offering balance and support to the partner who is elevated. Acroyoga also tests your level of trust and intimacy, and becomes a way to spend time with your partner.

For energetic exercisers

Style: Ashtanga yoga

Designed by the late yoga master K Pattabhi Jois, Ashtanga yoga is named after the eight Patanjali yoga sutras and directly translates to the eight-limbed path ('ashta' means eight and 'anga' means limb). It's a dynamic style with a vigorous flow, making it the best choice for those with lots of energy and discipline. Practised regularly, it gives more stamina and control over the mind.

For spiritual seekers

Style: Kundalini yoga

This niche form tries to awaken the seven chakras in the human body so you get to know yourself from within spiritually. Each asana has a yogic breathing pattern associated with it and tries to clear the energy clutter. It's more about mudras, chanting and meditation than asanas.

For a healthy lifestyle

Style: Sivananda yoga

Swami Vishnu-Devananda devised this form way back in 1959 and it's still practised in its original method of variations of the 12 steps of Surya Namaskar. The focus is on the synergy of diet, exercises, relaxation, meditation, positive thinking and breathing techniques for an overall healthy lifestyle.

For lazy people

Style: Restorative yoga

It's called yoga for lazy people because the emphasis is on relaxation rather than working out. Restorative yoga is all about holding simple poses using props like lavender eye pillows, blankets and bolsters for a sense of peace and calm. The session leaves you feeling refreshed and rejuvenated.

For senior citizens and workaholics

Style: Chair yoga

This one's for older folks and people whose ailments don't allow them to stand or sit for a long time. The poses are modified so they can be practised on a chair instead of a mat for support. Chair yoga is also becoming popular with office goers since you don't need to squat on the floor for it.                                            http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/life-style/health-fitness/fitness/Yoga-styles-for-every-personality/articleshow/47912581.cms