What’s the Difference Between Restorative, Gentle, and Vinyasa Yoga?

If you’ve ever browsed a yoga class schedule and felt unsure or overwhelmed about what style to choose, you’re not alone. Terms like Restorative, Gentle, and Vinyasa describe different experiences on the mat, each catering to specific movements.

Restorative Yoga:

Restorative yoga is all about relaxation. This practice uses props like bolsters, blankets, and blocks to fully support the body in restful poses held for extended periods. The focus is on calming the nervous system, making it ideal for stress relief, recovery, or anyone needing deep rest. During this practice you will deepen your breath, slow your mind, and ease into poses. This is wonderful for all lifestyles to learn how to slow down. You may find yourself taking poses home to use daily when you just need a moment of stillness.

Gentle Yoga:

Gentle yoga offers a slow-paced, easy-to-follow practice that focuses on light stretching, breath awareness, and simple movements. There may be some standing poses or light flow, the emphasis is always on comfort, safety, and ease. Throughout class you will be brought back to focus on your breath as you move through the guided sequence. Reminding yourself that this is your practice, while guided, you may take the time and pace that feels good for your mind and body.

Vinyasa Yoga:

Vinyasa yoga is often described as “flow” yoga. It combines breath with movement in a continuous sequence of postures, building heat, strength, and flexibility; this style is more athletic and fast-paced. It’s great if you’re looking for a workout, stress relief through movement, or a more physically engaging practice. Beginning with a warmup before repeating three or four rounds of “flow”, then ending with a cooldown to Savasana.

Choosing the Style for You:

Your choice depends on how you feel and what you need. Looking to unwind? Go restorative. Want a gentle stretch and mindful movement? Try gentle yoga. Ready to move, sweat, and flow? Vinyasa is for you!

Each style offers its own benefits. Give each style that interests you a try, knowing you may always try them all! Sometimes the best is mixing it up depending on what you need at that moment.