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What Type of Yoga can help with Anxiety?

yogaLearn about different types of yoga


There are several different types of yoga and it can be hard to know what type of yoga is right for you. It can be intimidating to take a new class or try out yoga for the first time. That’s a normal part of having a yoga practice. Let’s take a look at 5 different yoga types that you are likely to encounter when searching for  a yoga class.

  

All Levels Flow

This is not a specific style of yoga but it is common to see an all levels flow on a yoga schedule. It is a great place to start whether you are new to yoga or have been practicing for years. This practice is open to all from beginner to advanced.  It is meant to offer several modifications so that you can tailor your practice to fit your needs.

When to take an All Levels Yoga class?

This practice can be helpful when you are wanting to try something new as you will be given options to modify your yoga practice by experimenting with new pose variations. This practice can be great when anxiety is feeling restless and just needing a safe space to have an adventure. 

 

Power Flow

Person on yoga mat doing downward facing dog in a room.
By Ginny Rose Stewart

Is a fast paced practice that focuses on synchronizing breath and movement and strength building poses. During a power flow sequence you will move one breath per movement. Eg. Inhale – Up dog; Exhale- Down dog. The sequence changes every class. 

When to take Power Flow?

This practice can be extremely helpful for those with higher anxiety since the pacing of the class requires more focus on moving and poses which can facilitate focusing on the practice rather than what is going on in the mind. 

 

Bikram Yoga

It is a set series of 26 poses and two breathing exercises.  These poses are performed in the same order every class for 90 minutes. Bikram yoga can also be referred to as Hot Yoga since classes are set in a room of 105 degrees Fahrenheit. However, not all Hot yoga classes are Bikram. 

When to take Bikram?

This is an extremely grounding practice as you know exactly what to expect and the time it will take to complete therefore this practice can assist with trauma as it is grounding and predictable. This yoga class is also a great option for when anxiety is happening as there is plenty of movement and repetition that can assist with help you feel more centered.  Though not a guarantee, practices that offer a lot of repetition can facilitate clarity and physical and emotional soothing. 

 

In case you missed 👉 Introduction to mindfulness: what is that?

 

Yin Yoga

Is a slow-paced practice involving postures focused on stretching and lengthening muscles and connective tissue. Poses are usually held between 2 to 10 minutes. 

 

Restorative

Is a slow-paced practice focused on strategically arranging the body to allow it to find ease and release tension. You will use props in this practice such as blankets, bolsters, blocks, etc.  Poses are also held for several minutes.  

When to take Restorative practices?

Person on yoga mat with view of the city in a seated pose with hand in prayer behind the back
By Todd Kent

Both Yin and Restorative are slow paced practices and focus on releasing tension but can also be extremely helpful in mental calm as well. Who couldn’t use more of that?! These practices are often very refreshing and soothing. If you are struggling with higher anxiety, this yoga class may be best practiced at a time of day when you’ve got more of a  sleepy feeling or after a more fast paced practice or activity so that you are in a  place to release. 

I hope this post helped give you information on the different types of yoga available and how to narrow down the search for what you might need. 

Ready to continue your journey through anxiety?

Yoga is one tool that I love to use in sessions to help you better understand yourself and anxiety.  If you are ready to take the next step then book your free discovery call with me. Let me help you uncover the transformative potential of anxiety counseling when guided by a clear plan and the expertise of the right therapist can help you now, tomorrow and well into your future.

I look forward to hearing from you and hope this helps you as you take your own powerful and transformative journey. Per usual take what fits for you, leave what does not, and join me next time. Until then let’s stay social 🙂

 

*This content is not a substitute for professional advice, treatment, diagnosis, or similar. Do not delay seeking medical advice or treatment because of this content. For any concerns about your mental health consult your medical professionals. For more on this disclaimer.  

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About the author

I’m Beatriz Stanley, a therapist, yoga instructor and mental health expert.

I help humans create healthy connections with themselves and others by guiding them to own their story, set boundaries, and ask for what they need.

About the author

Beatriz Stanley is a therapist, yoga instructor and mental health expert.
I help humans create healthy connections with themselves and others by guiding them to own their story, set boundaries, and ask for what they need.

About the author

I’m Beatriz Stanley, a therapist, yoga instructor and mental health expert.

I help humans create healthy connections with themselves and others by guiding them to own their story, set boundaries, and ask for what they need.