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Yoga

What is yoga?
At its core, yoga is a connection of breath to movement. Since its beginnings, yoga has evolved into many different traditional and even some out of the box (beer yoga? Yes, please!) practices. No matter the form, you’ll walk away physically stronger, mentally refreshed, spiritually connected, or—our favorite—all of the above.

Word to the wise
How to be ready
Yoga is for anyone, all it takes is for you to show up and keep an open mind. Maybe you won’t be balancing on your head after a single class, but you will feel a little more capable (and a lot more relaxed) than you did before.
What to wear to yoga class: form-fitting clothes that keep you comfortable especially when you’re moving and stretching.
What to bring: yoga mat (some studios have rentals), water, and a towel*
*If you’re taking a heated class—looking at you Bikram and hot yoga—you’ll definitely want to remember a towel!
Types of yoga
What are the different types of yoga?
Like you, your yoga practice is an ever-evolving endeavor. We couldn’t possibly name all the different shapes and forms yoga has taken, but here’s some of the most popular:
Generally more slower-paced classes that give you a gentle introduction to the most basic yoga poses. If you’re a beginner, we highly recommend trying a Hatha class.
A faster flow class that connects quick movement to breath and music with beats. Looking for a way to raise your heart rate? Vin-yes-a!
This practice focuses on alignment and precision. You’ll hold the poses for a little longer to perfect form and all the tiny details—it’s sweating the small stuff (in the best way).
105 degrees, 40% humidity—get ready to sweat. Every Bikram class practices the same 90-minute sequence, so you’ll know what to expect anywhere.
These classes follow the same poses in the same order, while moving quickly to build internal heat and break a sweat. Ashtanga is awesome for experienced yogis looking for a physical challenge.
The name says it all …you’ll be in a heated room (similar to Bikram), but teachers aren’t constrained to the set sequence. Don’t forget a water and a towel!
These classes incorporate intense core work and fast breath—along with chanting, mantras, and meditation—to release the untapped energy within you.
A meditative practice where you’ll hold stretching poses for several minutes to restore length and elasticity to your muscles.
Focused on full body relaxation, you’ll spend more time in less poses to help you unwind and relax your mind. Overheard after leaving this class: ahhhh.
This name is no joke: poses flow from one to another with minimal breaks in between. Build strength and endurance, and maybe even get some cardio in while you’re at it.
Grab a friend and lean on each other in a whole new way. Get your acrobatics on by practicing poses while being held up by a partner.
Trade your mat for a standup paddleboard and your land practice for some fun in the sun! These floating classes bringing a whole new balance challenge to your traditional poses.
Want a full body workout? These classes add hand weights and cardio to the foundational yoga poses to help boost your metabolism and build lean muscle.
Take your practice to new heights (literally). These classes incorporate the use of a hammock to give you a new perspective on traditional yoga poses.
Find your balance.
The Ensō Blog
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