Find your way into practice.
Gentle, restorative and flowing yoga offer different rhythms. Start with the experience you want and the questions you need answered.
A little movement.
A little attention.
Yoga can include movement, breathing practices and periods of stillness. Classes vary in pace, structure and physical demands. The description is a starting point; the instructor’s approach and your own circumstances matter too.
Before joining a class, ask about experience level, adaptations, equipment and the pace of transitions. You can also ask how choices are offered during practice. A clear conversation makes it easier to understand what participation will involve.
Gentle practice.
Usually a slower pace, with time to explore positions and transitions. Ask how the class accommodates different levels of mobility and experience.
Restorative practice.
Often uses supports and longer periods in a small number of positions. Ask what props are provided and whether the positions can be adapted for your comfort.
Flowing practice.
Links movement into sequences and may include repeated transitions. Ask about the pace, physical demands and options for pausing or changing a movement.
Arrive with a clear picture.
Before a first class, read the description and ask about the pace, equipment and expected experience. “All levels” still leaves useful questions: how are options explained, which positions are involved and how can someone pause?
Consider the setting as well as the style. Noise, space, accessibility and the ease of getting there can affect the experience. If you prefer a quieter or slower practice, say so when asking about the class. A clear preference helps make the conversation specific.
During practice, keep choices available. You can ask for an alternative, use a support or stop a movement that does not feel appropriate. The class-style comparison explains the different rhythms found in gentle, restorative and flowing sessions.
Explore further: NCCIH: yoga effectiveness and safety.
COMPARE CLASS STYLES