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Welcome to New Breath Yoga

In the ancient language of Sanskrit, Yoga means ‘union’ or ‘connection’ – a connection with the body and mind and the environment around us.

There are many forms and styles of Yoga; some traditional and some with a western spin. Here is a breakdown of some of the styles:

Ashtanga

Ashtanga is based on ancient Yoga teachings. It is a rigorous style of Yoga that follows a specific sequence of postures and is similar to Vinyasa Yoga, as each style links every movement to a breath. The difference is that Ashtanga always performs the exact same poses in the exact same order. This is suitable for all

Bikram

Bikram consist of series of 26 poses and usually takes place in a room heated room at 40 degrees. Like Ashtanga, a Bikram class always follows the same sequence of moves, although a Bikram sequence is different from an Ashtanga sequence. Working in such heat is said to allow you to obtain greater flexibility to achieve the pose, and the classes normally last 60-90 minutes. Due to the lack of instruction and heat best for more experience Yogis.

Hatha

Hatha Yoga is the style taught in most Yoga studios in the West. Hatha refers to a set of physical exercises (known as ‘asanas’ or postures) and sequences of asanas, designed to align your skin, muscles, and bones. The postures are also designed to open the many channels of the body—especially the main channel, the spine—so that energy can flow freely. We also learn to balance our effort and surrender in each pose. Hatha Yoga is a powerful tool for self-transformation. This type of Yoga is suitable for all ages and abilities.

Iyengar

Iyengar Yoga was developed by B.K.S. Iyengar. Iyengar is a very meticulous style of Yoga, with close attention paid to finding the proper alignment in a pose. To help the student find proper alignment, Iyengar applied the use of props. Many of the poses are also held for a given number of breaths and you’ll be amazed to discover how physically and mentally challenging it is to stay in place. Iyengar has a very holistic approach and in his book ‘Light on Yoga’ he has a whole chapter of the benefits and treatments of his style. Ideal for those trying to recover from sporting injury.

Restorative (Yin Yoga)

Restorative Yoga is a delicious way to relax and soothe frayed nerves. Also described as Yin Yoga, restorative classes also use props to support students into passive poses. Each pose is held for about 2 minutes. This type of Yoga can be very relaxing and is great for doing in the evening before bed. Suitable for anyone of any age as all moves are passive.

Vinyasa

Vinyasa uses the Hatha Yoga poses in a sequence. Vinyasa classes are known for their fluid, movement-intensive practices. Each pose is linked with the breath to smoothly transition from pose to pose, with the intention of linking breath to movement, and the teacher often plays music to keep things lively. The intensity of the practice is similar to Ashtanga, but no two Vinyasa classes are the same. If you hate routine and love to test your physical limits, Vinyasa may be just what you’re looking for.  Ideal for intermediate to advanced Yogi.

Kundalini

An uplifting blend of spiritual and physical practices, Kundalini Yoga incorporates movement, dynamic breathing techniques, meditation, and the chanting of mantras, such as ‘Sat Nam’ which means “truth is my identity.” The goal is to build physical vitality and increase consciousness. Some classes can be quite physically demanding so speak to the teacher first.

As with everything, one of these styles of Yoga may suit your needs better than another.

Here at New Breath, I will offer traditional Hatha and Vinyasa. Please see Classes page for more details.