A Yoga Glossary

As a fitness endeavor, yoga is taught in a number of ways that, while incorporating many of the same poses, differ in their emphasis on movement, breathing and other elements. Different teachers will delve more or less into chanting, meditation and other spiritual aspects, so shop around for an approach that suits you. Here is a primer on some of the basic styles, developed with the help of John Schumacher from the Unity Woods Yoga Center in Washington:

Hatha: An overall term that encompasses many of the yoga styles but has also come to refer to a slower-paced sort of practice.

Vinyasa: A more rigorous style in which postures flow from one to the next, coordinated with the breath.

Ashtanga: Sometimes referred to as power yoga, this incorporates the flowing techniques of Vinyasa into a long, set series of poses.

Bikram: If you like it hot, try this style, where a set series of 26 poses is performed with room temperature at upward of 100 degrees.

Iyengar: Emphasizes precise alignment, with poses held for longer periods and blocks or other props frequently used for support.

Anusara: An offshoot of Iyengar, taught with a softer touch.

Kundalini: Powerful breathing and the quick repetition of some motions are used to raise energy levels.