Searching for a way to shake up the humdrum of your home workout routine? It’s National Yoga Month and the perfect opportunity to try the exercise.
Before you add yoga to your home workout, it’s best to learn the basics by attending some classes. A yoga instructor can work you through the poses so you can perform them safely.
To help you get started, we’ll discuss the three most popular yoga styles so you’ll know what to expect when you’re looking at local classes. If you already practice yoga or want something more out-of-the-box, we’ll also give you some ideas on where to go in the Phoenix Valley for a unique yoga experience.
Which Yoga Style Is Right for You?
It’s understandable to feel overwhelmed when first venturing into the world of yoga. With so many options, it’s hard to know where to start. To begin, it’s best to think about what you want to get out of the experience. Are you looking to find peace or flexibility? Perhaps both?
Consider these three popular (yet different) classic styles:
- Vinyasa yoga specializes in the flow of the poses. Participants move into (and hold) a position as they focus on their breathing and increase their strength.
- Restorative yoga, as the name implies, creates a relaxing experience where participants find calm and rejuvenation through a short series of poses.
- Yin yoga is a slower take on the practice. It requires participants to hold each pose for a longer period of time (anywhere from 45 seconds to five minutes) for a deep muscle release.
If you try an instructor or style out and find you don’t enjoy the class, try different yoga styles and instructors. It may take a few attempts to find the right fit you.
Once you have the poses down and feel comfortable developing your own “flows,” you can take what you’ve learned and incorporate it into your home workout routine.
Out-of-the-Box Yoga Experiences in the Phoenix Valley
Mixing up your home workout routine is always nice, but sometimes you want to get out of the house and attend a class. Over the past few years, new trends have developed in the world of yoga. Even though fads come and go, the heart of yoga can still be found in each new method… as can some excitement!
Searching for ways to celebrate National Yoga Month in the Phoenix Valley? We have three unique ideas:
- Aerial Yoga
Aerial yoga is done with the assistance of sturdy ribbons or hammocks. Instructors will teach you how to hold poses while suspended above the ground. Don‘t worry — it’s only a few inches above the floor.
During the practice, many participants feel an aerial yoga session isn’t more intense than a regular yoga session. But, when they leave, they often report feeling like they have gone through a deep muscle workout.
Where in the Valley? Twisted Yoga Studio in Tempe offers aerial classes. Check their website for their schedule and fees.
- Bikram Yoga
Known for being one of the most intense forms of yoga, Bikram yoga is a high-intensity workout held in a warm, humid room. This technique is fast-paced, and classes can run over an hour long.
Where in the Valley? The Foundry has three Valley locations: Mesa, Scottsdale, and Paradise Valley. Check their website for their schedule and fees.
- Goat Yoga
Yes, you read that right. Yoga with goats. Practice your poses or simply meditate alongside a group of adorable goats. Be warned, however. Goats love to climb, and they had no qualms about jumping onto people. But with cute faces like those, you’ll probably cut them some slack.
Where in the Valley? Welcome Home Ranch in Gilbert has specially trained goats to “help” you practice your yoga. Check their website for more information and to secure your spot in an upcoming class.
No matter what type of yoga appeals to you, it is important to pace yourself. Injuries can happen if you overexert yourself, especially if you’re just starting out. If you have an injury from yoga or another home workout schedule an appointment with us. We can help you get back on track with less pain.
