What Type of Yoga is best for me?
There are many different types of yoga, and these can range from very gentle meditative forms to yoga, to extremely strong dynamic and physically challenging forms of yoga.
Factors which can influence the best form of yoga for you
If you are completely new to yoga, you should consider your
- age
- level of fitness
- whether you have any injuries
- what it is that you are looking for
- whether you have any health condition or illness
- what types of yoga are available in your area
Age
Yoga is suitable for all ages from early childhood to the day we actually pass away.
You are never too young or too old to take up yoga.
However, in general, younger people between 14 and 30 tend to prefer a strong more energetic type of yoga. This can be because their attention wanders easily, and they need a physical challenge to focus their mind, and also to give themselves a good challenge with which to engage in.
Older people over 50 years of age, tend to prefer a more gentle type of yoga and in general have nothing to prove to themselves, and in general are looking for a practice which will help improve their health and well-being, and also their peace of mind and help them to get in tune with their own Self.
Level of Fitness
It is important to be honest with yourself, and if you are not fit, then it is worth starting with a more gentle form of yoga.
How fit you are can influence which form of yoga you may prefer. If you are an athlete or sports person who plays matches regularly, you may prefer a physically stronger form of yoga as you are used to good strong physical exercise.
If you are quite over weight or very unfit and don’t usually do much exercise, then possibly it would to consider taking up a more gentle form of yoga.
Injuries, health condition or illness
Similarly if you have injuries, a health condition or illness then it may also be best to consider a more gentle form of yoga to take up at the start.
What it is that you are looking for
Some people may be looking primarily for physical benefits which may include
- improved flexibility
- improved mobility
- increased stamina
- improved posture
- improved breathing
Some may be looking for more mental benefits
- stress reduction
- increased concentration
- improved quality of sleep
- learn techniques to relax
Some may be looking for spiritual benefits
- ability to tune inwards and ‘listen’ to oneself
- learn how to ‘simply BE in the present moment’
- learn how to increase compassion and love for everybody
- learn how to let go of the ego, and to feel and live from the heart centre
- learn how to let go of the ‘babble’ in the mind and get in touch with one’s inner self
It is a good idea to also read
Who our retreats are suitable for
and
Don’t be afraid to ask
There are so many different types of yoga, and so many factors that play a part in choosing the best possible retreat for you that you would be surprised how much a 3 minute phone conversation with Dave will help you in deciding which retreat would be best for you.
Every day of the week, people phone the centre for advice in helping choose the right type of yoga, and right retreat for them at whatever stage of life they are at.
Dave really would like everybody who comes to a retreat at the Burren Yoga and Meditation Centre to enjoy it fully, and to keep up the practice of yoga and meditation yourself after your time here.
He is only too happy to help you choose the right retreat for you.
Phone number is in the footer area at the bottom of the page. Please only phone during normal business hours.
Reviewed 22nd April 2017
