Unisport, the exercise centre for students and staff of University of Helsinki and Aalto University provides a variety of regular yoga classes under their Body and Mind– category. At the moment, students can practice four types of yoga on a weekly basis. But what’s the difference between Flow, Yin, Hatha, and Ashtanga yoga? I tried all of the Unisport yoga classes over the course of one week and investigated how exactly these classes differ. It turned out that each class focused on different aspects of yoga: whether you look for physical challenges or relaxation, Unisport yoga offers something for everyone.
1. Flow Yoga: “Asanas Come and Go – So Go With the Flow”
The purpose of flow yoga is to create a swiftly moving “flow” of asanas*, guided by your breathing. This class will make you break into a sweat, and there may even be music playing in the background accompanying the flow. It is good to know the basics of yoga when taking this class, but you shouldn’t feel intimidated to try it out even as a beginner. At the class I took the instructor generously told us that we could always take a break in child’s pose if needed, and reminded us that “this is your practice,” not anybody else’s. If you want a decent workout where the intention is to move with your breath, flow yoga might be the thing for you.
2. Yin Yoga: “Asanas Are Here to Stay”
A yin yoga class gives you space to de-stress and unwind from the challenges of the day. The aim is to calm the body and mind by doing deep, long-lasting yoga stretches. The dimmed lights and soft music aid you in letting go and quieting the mind. After class you should feel light and relaxed. If you need an opportunity to practice self-care, put on your most comfortable clothes and go to yin yoga.
3. Hatha Yoga: “Tend to Your Asanas”
Hatha yoga is a good choice if you’re a beginner to yoga, for in this class you are encouraged to seek correct alignments to the most common yoga asanas with the help of yoga blocks and straps. The class includes a lot of poses that cultivate mental and physical balance. Unlike in flow yoga, here you are more than welcome to fully concentrate on one pose at a time, and the instructor is there to help you in case you need to make adjustments to some of the poses.
4. Ashtanga Yoga: “Asanas Challenge the Mind and Body”
Ashtanga yoga suits those who are looking for something more intense and have practiced yoga earlier. This form of yoga will include a lot of strengthening poses that can be physically very challenging, and you’ll get a chance to practice the ujjayi breathing technique. If you feel like you’re ready for a physically intense yoga experience, sign up for an ashtanga class.
For more information, go to: unisport.fi
*’asana’ refers commonly to the postures the yoga practitioner does
Also check out how you can practise yoga at home, try boxing and indoor bouldering!