I'm regularly asked to help people choose a Yoga class that will suit them. There are lots of styles, and flavours on offer in Bristol, so here are a few pointers and guidelines to help get you started:
1) Try the class
There isn't really any substitute for trying the class to see if you enjoy it as it is such a personal experience. Even if your friend loves the class, it just might not suit you. Try a few classes if you have the time. Most teachers are happy for you to come along and try their class and see if it is right for you.
2) Enjoy the class!The class should leave you feeling refreshed, relaxed, energised, calm, settled and more positive. An overall good feeling that should speak for itself. If you start to feel frustrated, unsettled, uncomfortable, then perhaps the class doesn't suit you or try talking to your teacher.
3) Feel comfortable and confident in the teacherYou should feel comfortable in the class, and confident in the teacher so you can immerse yourself in the class. You should feel able to ask your teacher questions (before or after class usually) to help support you as you get more familiar with the practice.
4) Challenging or relaxing class?
Should you take a more challenging, difficult class or a more relaxing class? This is where most classes vary the most and finding something that suits you is really important.
If you have a really busy, full-on lifestyle and are a fast-paced person, then I would suggest exploring a more calming, supportive Yoga class that will help balance your life. You might be drawn to a strong, difficult Yoga practice, but you might find this just perpetuates your pace which ultimately might be unhealthy. People often find themselves burnt-out. Give the other way a go and see what happens! You might initially think this is boring, but your personal challenge might be to stick with it and discover the hidden depths, rather than the obvious and immediate challenge of keeping up.
If you are a bit lethargic, unmotivated and have a more sedentary lifestyle, why not try a more energising class that challenges you and switches your pace. Ensure you work within your physical abilities, especially at first, but this could be a great Yoga practice for you.
5) Well trained teachers
Yoga is a huge and ancient subject. There is much to study and we're always learning more. Along with the many Yoga postures, there are many breathing techniques that are learned over time, Yoga philosophy, anatomy and physiology, and lots more besides. We recommend at least two years teacher training, and organisations such as the
British Wheel of Yoga provide accreditation to meet this standard (they are the only Yoga body to be approved by
Sport England).
6) Yoga that fits your schedule
Regular practice is really important to gradually develop the benefits and practice safely. Finding a Yoga class that is convenient for you to get to, and is at a time that you can usually make, will give you the best chance of sticking with it.
7) Types of Yoga Classes
Here are a few 'types' or flavours of class to help orientate you. They are all Yoga and all dealing with the same things but might feel different and focus on slightly different aspects when you try them. So this is just a rough guide, feel free to add more descriptions below to help others choose a class...
Iyengar Yoga Classes
Iyengar Yoga offers physically challenging classes where you hold classic yoga postures for a period of time to develop good strength. Strong focus on alignment, making use of equipment such as belts, blocks, bricks, chairs etc. to assist you in getting in to the posture. Less focus on breathing until a couple of years class attendance. Usually well trained teachers.
Hatha Yoga Classes
Classic yoga postures which also incorporate a focus on the breathing. Variations on postures include staying in postures, or moving into them dynamically but more slowly. Classes can range from challenging to more gentle and relaxing so check with the teacher to see what they are teaching.
Ashtanga Yoga Classes
Ashtanga Yoga is a set sequence of dynamic movements which you learn over time and will work through each class. A strong, physical practice with focus on moving with the breath. Physically demanding and a longer class usually (1.5 - 2.5 hours). Good for physical stamina and an intense experience. Go carefully, especially at first.
Viniyoga Classes (what I teach)
Classic Yoga postures which you move into and out of dynamically with the breath, gradually building up to staying in the postures over time. Small classes where the teacher will help adapt the postures to suit the students and will offer optional challenges as you progress. Strong focus on breathing and gradually deepening and developing the breath to intensify the practice when the student is ready. Well trained teachers :-)
Bikram Yoga Classes
Hot Yoga classes, offering a set sequence of 26 postures practiced in a hot (super-hot!) room where students sweat and work hard in each pose. Often beginners will sit out some poses and just enjoy the heat. Teachers have learned a set script which
Bikram Choudhury developed and has taught to all his teachers during their 9-week intensive teacher training programme. An intense experience and strong practice.
Vinyasa Flow Yoga Classes
Dynamic movements linking poses together and flowing the movements with the breath. Often a physically challenging and focusing practice which requires some coordination to join in and keep up. Variable teacher training, some good but some can be trained in only a few months so recommend finding out.
Try a class or a few classes and see how they suit you.
Please add more class descriptions or suggestions below to help others in finding the right class for them.
Enjoy!
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