Goldilocks and the Three Bears of Yoga: Finding Your Perfect Flow
Ever leave a yoga class feeling like it just wasn’t the right fit? Maybe it felt too slow, too fast, or perhaps it didn’t even "feel" like yoga to you. If this sounds familiar, you're not alone! This experience is a lot like the story of Goldilocks and the Three Bears—each class can feel too hot, too cold, or just right. But here's the good news: it doesn't mean the class, the teacher, or even yoga itself isn’t for you. It just means that particular style didn’t resonate with you, and that’s perfectly okay! Yoga is an incredibly diverse practice, and part of the journey is finding what clicks for you.
Let’s break down some of the key styles of yoga to help you navigate your own "just right" path:
Vinyasa Yoga
Often described as a "flow," vinyasa yoga links breath with movement in a dynamic sequence of poses. It’s adaptable for all levels, but you might find yourself moving at a quicker pace compared to other styles. It’s perfect for those who enjoy variety and like to get their heart rate up while maintaining mindfulness.
Ashtanga Yoga
A more structured practice, Ashtanga yoga follows a set sequence of postures that you repeat each time you practice. It's disciplined, challenging, and builds strength and flexibility over time. This is great for those who like routine and enjoy working on the same sequence to track their progress.
Iyengar Yoga
Precision, alignment, and detail are the heart of Iyengar yoga. Props like blocks, straps, and bolsters are often used to help you find the correct form. This practice is perfect for students who love to dive deep into their body’s alignment and enjoy a slower, methodical pace.
Power Yoga
If you’re looking for a more athletic and intense practice, Power Yoga might be your match. Inspired by Ashtanga, but with more flexibility in sequencing, Power Yoga focuses on building strength and endurance. It’s great for those who like a workout-style class that’s still rooted in yoga principles.
Hatha Yoga
Hatha is often considered the foundation of all yoga styles. It’s a more traditional approach that focuses on basic postures and breath control. Slower than a vinyasa or power yoga class, Hatha is perfect for beginners or those looking for a more gentle, mindful practice.
Restorative Yoga
The ultimate "slow down" practice, restorative yoga involves long holds in supportive postures, often using blankets, bolsters, and blocks. This class is all about relaxation and stress relief—perfect if you’re looking for deep rest and rejuvenation.
Yin Yoga
While it might look similar to restorative yoga, yin yoga is all about holding poses for longer periods to stretch the deeper connective tissues in the body. It can be intense, but incredibly rewarding for flexibility and releasing tension, both physically and emotionally.
Kundalini Yoga
A more spiritual and energetic practice, Kundalini combines postures, breathwork, chanting, and meditation to awaken your inner energy. It’s a great option if you’re seeking a transformative experience that goes beyond the physical.
Fusion Classes
In some classes, you might find a blend of these styles, or even additional elements like light weights or Pilates-inspired movements. At our studio, we offer classes that combine yoga with other forms of movement to create a well-rounded, balanced experience. For example, Kirsty’s mat Pilates class brings strength and core work into the practice, while Brianna’s Hot Hatha blends Yin, Vinyasa, and Power for a unique fusion flow. Every teacher has their own background, from different schools of yoga and personal practice, which adds richness to the diversity of classes we offer.
The Yoga Teacher Journey
Just like students, every teacher comes from a unique background. Some are drawn to dynamic practices like vinyasa or power, while others find their home in restorative or yin. Teachers like Camille combine restorative and stretch elements, creating a beautiful mix of flow and relaxation, while Rob emphasizes balance and mindfulness, with a deep commitment to dharma and breathwork.
At our studio, we encourage you to explore different styles and teachers. Yoga is a personal journey, and sometimes finding your perfect practice takes a bit of trial and error. And that’s okay! Whether you love the heat of power yoga, the alignment of Iyengar, or the deep stillness of restorative, there’s something here for you.
So next time you step on the mat and it doesn't feel quite right, remember: you’re not Goldilocks, but you are on a journey to find the class that feels "just right" for you. Keep exploring, keep trying new things, and trust that your perfect yoga practice is out there waiting.
See you on the mat! ✨