Yoga styles

Yoga, as it was first intended is a philosophy and an entire way of life.

It originated in India several thousand years ago and is the oldest system of personal development in the world encompassing the entire body, mind and spirit. The word yoga comes from the Sanskrit word, yukti, and means “to join or yoke together” and the intention through this ancient system of breathing practices, physical exercises and postures, and meditation, is to bring the body and mind together into one harmonious experience.

The yoga provided on Destination Yoga holidays is typically a dynamic flowing style with roots in the astanga method of yoga. With a strong focus on connecting with the breath. Some classes are more restorative with our teachers adapting the classes according to the level of the groups and individuals.

There are six major styles of yoga:

Hatha

This is the most familiar branch of yoga in the Western world. It uses physical poses (asanas), breathing techniques (pranayama) and meditation in order to bring the body into perfect harmony and through this create better health. The asanas incorporate three basic types of movement: forward bends, backward bends and twists. There are over 200 asanas which are combined to create sequences for practice.

Raja

Raja meaning Royal is the path of yoga focusing on meditation and contemplation. This yoga path teaches deep self respect through self mastery.

Karma

This branch of yoga believes that your present situation is based on your past actions. It emphasises selfless work as a service to others. Each selfless action performed by the practitioner develops a future free from negativity and selfishness. The intention is to change your actions towards the good – good words, good thoughts, good deeds, in order to change your soul. By being selfless, you change your consciousness which leads to a change in your destiny.

Jnana

This is the branch of yoga dealing with wisdom and knowledge otherwise known as the yoga of the mind. It cultivates wisdom and discernment, and is considered the most difficult type of yoga.

Tantra

This is the path of ritual. It utilises rituals to respectfully experience the sacred in everything we do. The aim is to expand our awareness in all states – both conscious and sub-conscious.

Bhakti

This is the path of yoga dealing with heart and devotion and intends to develop love, acceptance and tolerance for all.

Destination Yoga has been running truly unique yoga retreats of the highest quality for over 10 years and has an array of fantastic trips on offer, pairing some of the best yoga teachers in Europe with simply stunning destinations – The perfect restorative getaway for individuals or groups of yogis of all abilities.

Head over to the Holidays page to learn about our inspiring trips or check out some of our reviews from guests and press.