Ananda: Founded by Swami Kriyananda

This is a gentle approach to postures, Ananda Yoga emphasizes calming the mind in preparation for meditation. Holding the postures is said to create self-awareness, and affirmations are often incorporated to enhance the poses.

If you are looking a deeply spiritual experience that also builds strength and balance then this would be good for you.

Official Website for this Style:  www.ananda.org

Discuss this Style in the Forum:  YOGACOOL FORUM - ANANDA

Check out the Lists of Ananda Yoga Books or Ananda Yoga Videos!

Anusara: Founded by John Friend

A dual focus on principles of alignment and physical expressiveness gives practitioners an in-depth understanding of the poses as well as a strong dose of spirituality. Although physically challenging, the style emphasizes accepting each student's abilities.

Great one if you are looking for an almost equal balance of the physical and spiritual sides of Yoga. You have to be internally driven though

Official Website for this Style: www.anusara.com

Discuss this Style in the Forum: YOGACOOL FORUM - ANUSARA

Ashtanga: Founded by K. Pattabhi Jois

This is the foundation for many "Power Yoga's" or "Power Flow" classes, this fast-moving series of breath work and sweat-inducing poses is said to purify the mind and body. Get ready to sweat.

If you like pushing your muscles to the max and building up your cardio then this is the one for you.

Official Website for this Style: www.ayri.org

Discuss this Style in the Forum: YOGACOOL FORUM - ASHTANGA

Bikram: Founded by Bikram Choudury

This is known as the "Yoga to the Stars" because of it's popularity in Hollywood. Bikram consists of a 90 minute series of 26 poses. Ideally, class rooms are heated to 105 degrees with 60 percent humidity to facilitate stretching and loosening of the muscles and tendons.

If you have a high tolerance for heat, no heart trouble and like a highly charged athletic environment then give this one a shot. Bring water…

Official Website for this Style: www.bikramyoga.com

Discuss this Style in the Forum: YOGACOOL FORUM - BIKRAM

Hatha: Introduced by Yogi Swatmarama

This form of Yoga actually actually the root of most of the other Yoga's on this list. It is probably the most popular form of Yoga practiced in the United States, as well as multiple other countries around the world.

Books on Hatha Yoga

Official Website for this Style:

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Iyengar: Founded by B.K.S. Iyengar

Precision, alignment, and symmetry are key elements of an Iyengar class. Postures are help up to five minutes to build strength and encourage deep release. Props, such as blocks, belts, and blankets help students hold difficult poses, but can also create a start-and-stop pace that some people don't like.

If you are a detail oriented person who likes to get things right, no matter how long it takes then this might be for you.

Official Website for this Style: www.bksiyengar.com

Discuss this Style in the Forum: YOGACOOL FORUM - IYENGAR

Kripalu: Founded by Swami Kripalvanada

This is a slow paced class focused on creating an emotionally and physically safe learning environment. Offers a strong emphasis on mind-body integration.

If relaxation is just as important to you as building strength and increasing flexibility then try this.

Official Website for this Style: www.kripalu.org

Discuss this Style in the Forum: YOGACOOL FORUM - KRIPALU

Kundalini: Founded by Sikh Master Yogi Bhajan

The focus is on freeing energy by awakening Kundalini, the coiled energy located at the base of the spine. Despite it's sexy reputation, Kundalini emphasizes breathing exercises and chanting in lieu of a more physical practice.

If the spiritual and emotional dimensions of Yoga interest you more than getting a work out then this if for you.

Official Website for this Style: www.3ho.org

Discuss this Style in the Forum: YOGACOOL FORUM - KUNDALINI

Viniyoga: Founded by T.K.V. Desikachar

A gentle style that incorporates Asanas, chanting, breathing, practices and meditation, Viniyoga focuses on an individuals needs and abilities.

If you are looking for a supportive and nurturing environment where your limitations are taken into consideration in each asana then this is good for you. Especially good for people with chronic health problems.

Official Website for this Style: www.viniyoga.com

Discuss this Style in the Forum: YOGACOOL FORUM - VINIYOGA