Finding Your Flow: How to Choose the Right Yoga Style for You
Yoga is a deeply personal journey—an opportunity to connect with your body, breath, and mind in a way that feels right for you. With so many styles available, choosing the best fit can be overwhelming. Whether you’re new to yoga, returning after a break, or deepening your practice, understanding the differences between yoga styles can help you find your flow.
At Citta Flow, located in the market town of Kalamunda, Perth Hills, we offer Hatha and Hatha Flow classes designed to support practitioners of all ages and abilities, from seniors and beginners to intermediate yogis. But first, let’s explore some popular yoga styles to help you make an informed choice.
Popular Yoga Styles Explained
Ashtanga Yoga
Founder: Sri K. Pattabhi Jois (1915–2009), a renowned yoga teacher from Mysore, India.
Background: Developed in the 20th century, Ashtanga yoga was systematized by Pattabhi Jois based on the ancient text Yoga Korunta (said to be written by the sage Vamana Rishi).
A vigorous, structured practice consisting of six set series of poses performed in a precise sequence. It builds strength, flexibility, and stamina through continuous movement linked to breath (vinyasa).
Who it suits: Experienced practitioners who enjoy challenge and discipline.
Ages & Abilities: Best for healthy adults with good baseline fitness; not ideal for beginners, seniors, or those with injuries.
Vinyasa Yoga
Founder: While Vinyasa itself is a traditional term describing “breath-synchronised movement,” the modern style called Vinyasa Flow was popularized by T. Krishnamacharya (often called the “father of modern yoga”) and his students, notably Pattabhi Jois (Ashtanga) and B.K.S. Iyengar.
Background: Vinyasa evolved as a fluid, dynamic practice linking movement and breath, varying between teachers and lineages.
Often called “flow” yoga, Vinyasa links breath with fluid movements, offering a creative and dynamic practice. Classes vary widely in pace and intensity.
Who it suits: People seeking a moderate to energetic workout and enjoy variety.
Ages & Abilities: Suitable for beginners with some fitness, but modifications needed for seniors or those with limitations.
Hot (Bikram) Yoga
Founder: Bikram Choudhury (born 1946), an Indian yoga teacher who developed this style in the 1970s.
Background: Bikram Yoga consists of a fixed sequence of 26 poses practiced in a heated room (~40°C) following a fixed sequence of 26 postures designed to detoxify and strengthen the body.
Who it suits: Those comfortable with heat and seeking a physically demanding, sweat-inducing workout.
Ages & Abilities: Not recommended for seniors, beginners, pregnant women, people with low or high blood pressure, or people with certain health conditions due to heat stress.
Iyengar Yoga
Founder: B.K.S. Iyengar (1918–2014), a student of T. Krishnamacharya and one of the foremost yoga teachers of the 20th century.
Background: Iyengar Yoga emphasizes precision, alignment, and holding poses longer using props such as blocks and straps. It is therapeutic and methodical.
Who it suits: People wanting to improve posture, recover from injury, or practice with mindfulness and detail.
Ages & Abilities: Very accessible to all ages and abilities, including seniors and beginners.
What Does Citta Flow Offer?
At Citta Flow, we teach Hatha and Hatha Flow yoga—styles rooted in tradition but adapted for today’s needs.
Hatha Yoga focuses on gentle, mindful postures, breath work, and relaxation. It’s paced slowly, allowing you to cultivate strength, flexibility, and balance without rush or strain.
Hatha Flow adds smooth, flowing transitions connecting breath and movement while maintaining a calm, accessible approach.
Why Choose Citta Flow?
Inclusive & Supportive: Our classes welcome all ages and abilities, especially seniors and beginners. No need for prior experience or flexibility.
Mindful Movement: We emphasize breath awareness and gentle transitions to build body-mind connection.
Healing & Accessibility: Perfect if you’re recovering from injury, managing health challenges, or simply want a nurturing practice.
Community-Focused: Located in the beautiful Perth Hills, we foster a warm, ego-free environment where you can grow your practice and meet like-minded souls, and grab a coffee after class.
Finding Your Yoga Style: Final Tips
Explore and experiment: Try different classes to see what feels best.
Listen to your body: Choose practices that uplift and support you, not cause discomfort or strain.
Ask your teacher: Good teachers help tailor classes to your needs and provide modifications.
Be patient: Your ideal style may evolve with your practice and life’s seasons.
Ready to begin your journey? Join us at Citta Flow for Hatha and Hatha Flow classes designed to meet you exactly where you are—right here in Kalamunda, Perth Hills.
Check our schedule and book your first class today. Your flow awaits.
