Finding a Yoga Style for YOUR Body

There seems to be much confusion, especially among beginning students, over what style of yoga is the best for them to practice. My experience tells me that yoga is such an individualized practice! You can have 10 people in a class, and the 'same' pose will manifest itself 10 different ways - each one being best for the person doing the pose! That said, some styles are more appropriate for where you are in your life at any given time. I always suggest that if you are new to yoga, it is best to find an "introductory or basics" class where the teacher is attentive to your body type and range of motion - and instructs the class accordingly. Hopefully he/she will help you learn to navigate your own body awareness. Please keep in mind:

• Yoga should not cause pain
• there should be a place where you can find 'ease' (relax) in each pose
• YOU have the ability to choose if a pose is 'right' for you - not the teacher; never force

As you ease your way into yoga, allow time for your practice to develop and for the body to strengthen. Some practice styles are intensely vigorous, designed for those who desire a 'workout' and a physical challenge. Other practices are slower, and are more specific to opening the mind/body/spirit connection - yet, will still deveolp strength and flexibility. Still other practices are designed to be more 'healing' practices. So you need to ask the instructor or at the studio, which classes are which - let them know your relative fitness level and what you hope to accomplish. There is no 'one size fits all' and unfortunately, no 'cook book' recipe to follow. Maybe you are just looking for a way to decrease and manage your stress levels. There is a yoga practice style which will meet your desires - you need to discern well and find that. Follow your heart!

If you are interested in general information on the numerous styles of yoga, a recent article in Yoga Journal is linked here, and may answer a few of your questions.
http://www,yogajournal.com/basics/165

Nemaste!