Hatha vs Vinyasa

Yoga. It can be intimidating for those unfamiliar with the practice. A quick internet search for types further adds to the mystique of what this practice is – Ashtanga, Vinyasa, Hatha, Yin, Restorative, Bikram, Power, and so on. I want to introduce you to two versions of yoga: Hatha and Vinyasa.

Let’s start with Hatha Yoga. Thought to be the first type of yoga documented in ancient scripture, with its origins in Patanjali’s Yoga Sutras. Many people feel that all other forms of yoga are derived from Hatha. Hatha yoga intends to bring balance to body, mind, and soul. You hold postures for several breaths, which allows a person to experience the asana (posture) and make any adjustments needed to be present in it. Hatha is an excellent practice for those who are new to yoga. It is a slower pace, allowing a practitioner to focus on alignment, make modifications, and enjoy the stretch due to the longer hold time.

Vinyasa is a newer style of yoga. Thought to have derived from Hatha. It is a faster-paced style of yoga. Movement with breath is the key component of Vinyasa practice. It is dynamic. In Vinyasa class, it is common to go through a sequence of posesor asanas on one side before transitioning to the same sequence on the other. Each movement is connected to breath, and shapes are created as a practitioner inhales and exhales. It is a more physically active style versus the relaxed pace of Hatha.

Both styles of yoga are beneficial to incorporate into any daily routine. Many people enjoy a variety of yoga styles. In my experience, I have found introducing those new to yoga to Hatha to start their practice. As confidence gains through practice of the postures, it makes for an easy transition to a Vinyasa practice when looking for a more challenging yoga practice.

The best advice I heard when first starting to practice: “If you can breathe, you can do yoga.” And I found out that advice was true.