The main styles of modern yoga are Hatha, Vinyasa, Ashtanga, Yin, Restorative, Iyengar, Kundalini, and Power. Hatha covers slow-paced posture work. Vinyasa flows breath with movement. Ashtanga follows a fixed athletic sequence. Yin holds passive stretches for two to five minutes. Restorative uses props for deep rest. Iyengar emphasises precise alignment with extensive prop use. Kundalini combines breathwork with repetitive kriyas. Power yoga is a fitness-forward Vinyasa variant. Most styles use props including wooden yoga blocks, straps, and bolsters. The METADESK workshop in Kostopil, Ukraine, hand-makes solid ash blocks for Hatha, Iyengar, and Restorative practitioners.
Key facts
- Hatha yoga: slow, foundational, prop-friendly
- Vinyasa: breath-linked flow, moderate pace
- Ashtanga: fixed sequence, physically demanding
- Yin: long-hold passive floor postures
- Restorative: fully supported rest, 5 to 20 minute holds
Frequently asked questions
Which yoga is best for beginners?
Hatha and beginner Vinyasa are the most common entry points. Both use props extensively, so a wooden yoga block is helpful from day one.
Which yoga is best for stress?
Restorative and Yin are the calming styles. They use long-held supported postures that give the nervous system time to downshift.
Which yoga is most physically demanding?
Ashtanga and Power yoga are the athletic styles. Both build heat and strength quickly.
Do all types of yoga use props?
Most do. Iyengar and Restorative rely heavily on blocks, bolsters, and straps. See our yoga range.
For a solid wooden yoga block that works across all styles, see the METADESK Wooden Yoga Brick. Custom sizes at metadeskukraine@gmail.com.